Daijiworld Media Network - Manama
Manama, Nov 19: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has announced a new National Incentive Initiative aimed at energising Bahrain’s commercial sector during the festive season. The programme is tailored for shop owners and commercial establishments, offering direct financial and operational support to broaden promotional efforts, increase consumer spending, and reinforce local market activity across the Kingdom.
Initiative Overview and Goals
Launched through the Ministry’s Consumer Protection Directorate, the initiative is timed to coincide with Bahrain’s festive period and forms part of a broader drive to stimulate economic momentum. Its primary aim is to help commercial outlets strengthen their sales campaigns and attract greater footfall.
Key provisions include:
• Waiver of promotional campaign fees for participating establishments
• Extended discount and sales periods from December this year through the end of 2025
Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro stated that these measures are designed to revitalise purchasing activity across all governorates while reaffirming the Ministry’s support for entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Supporting Local Markets and Consumers
The initiative is structured to benefit both retailers and consumers. By allowing longer promotional periods and reducing cost barriers, the Ministry aims to:
• Encourage shoppers to prioritise national stores
• Boost domestic spending levels
• Strengthen consumer confidence by ensuring regulatory compliance in commercial practices
Minister Fakhro noted that such steps will contribute to a lively market atmosphere during national celebrations, enabling retailers to engage more effectively while maintaining fair and transparent trade standards.
Participation and Oversight
Commercial establishments interested in applying can contact the Consumer Protection Directorate directly via promotion_enquiries@moic.gov.bh.
Regulatory oversight will remain central to the initiative, with the Directorate ensuring that all promotional activities adhere to established guidelines. This approach, the Ministry emphasised, will protect the interests of both businesses and consumers while preserving trust in Bahrain’s commercial environment.
Strategic Importance
Minister Fakhro underlined that the National Incentive Initiative reflects a vital public–private partnership. Beyond boosting seasonal sales, the programme supports Bahrain’s long-term economic goals, strengthening its position as a dynamic commercial destination and contributing to the Kingdom’s broader vision of sustainable, diversified economic growth.