Manama: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce organised the activities of the 20th GCC Consumer Protection Week, in coordination with consumer protection authorities and departments in the GCC countries. The activities emphasise the importance of the unified GCC role in protecting consumer rights in light of the sector's rapid developments and growing challenges at local and regional levels.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, highlighted that this year's GCC Consumer Protection Week plan reflects the directives of the Heads of Consumer Protection in the GCC Committee. The initiative aims to unify awareness campaigns and community activities to strengthen joint awareness efforts and promote the exchange of expertise among GCC countries, to serve the best interests of GCC consumers and ensure a safer, fairer commercial environment.
Minister Fakhro noted that GCC Consumer Protection Week serves as an important platform for delivering targeted awareness messages to all segments of society. The events aim to empower consumers by enhancing their understanding of their rights and responsibilities, increasing their awareness of available complaint mechanisms and legal protections, and highlighting the Ministry of Industry and Commerce's efforts in the Kingdom of Bahrain to develop legislation, programmes, and policies that support consumer protection.
The minister highlighted that this year's celebrations are marked by the launch of the 'Young Consumer and Young Merchant' initiative at Seef Mall. The initiative aims to instil principles of consumer awareness and commercial responsibility in children from an early age, introducing them to the fundamentals of the consumer-merchant relationship and the rights and duties of each party. This contributes to preparing a conscious generation capable of making responsible consumer decisions.
He added that instilling a culture of conscious consumption in children and youth is essential, as they form the foundation of future society. The Young Consumer and Young Merchant initiative represents a practical step towards this goal, offering an interactive and enjoyable educational experience that combines learning with benefit.
Minister Fakhro commended the efforts of the supporting national authorities and emphasised the continued constructive coordination between the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, represented by the Consumer Protection Directorate, the Ministry of Education, INJAZ Bahrain, and Mytoyco, which plays an active role as a partner in implementing consumer awareness programmes.