As Ramadan begins, Kuwait’s markets witness a significant increase in demand for food and consumer goods. Traffic congestion is common as shoppers, including locals and expatriates, prepare for the holy month. Cooperative societies are responding with promotions and discounts to ease the financial load on consumers, while the government works to stabilize prices and protect consumer rights.
As Ramadan commenced, Kuwait’s markets experienced a notable surge in activity, highlighted by a significant uptick in demand for food and consumer goods related to the holy month. Traffic congestion was prevalent around these markets, reminiscent of previous years, as shoppers—both local citizens and expatriates—actively participated in buying essential items following Ramadan’s official announcement.
During a field visit to various cooperative societies and central markets, shoppers were observed filling their carts with items such as pastries, cold beverages, meat, chicken, and vegetables. This increase in purchasing has resulted in a 37% rise in sales in the lead-up to Ramadan.
Shoppers expressed their strategies for navigating the crowded stores; one individual, Abu Khaled, indicated, “I shop early every year to avoid unexpected price hikes and ensure the availability of basic products.” Another shopper, Umm Fahd, raised concerns about price variations, stating, “Some cooperatives offer real discounts, while others raise prices and then offer so-called discounts. I always compare prices before making my purchases.”
To accommodate the rising demand, several cooperative societies have introduced special promotions, including purchase coupons, substantial discounts on basic goods, and Ramadan food baskets. Ahmed Zayed, the manager of Al-Shamiya and Shuwaikh Cooperative Society Market, revealed that shareholders received coupons worth 120 dinars, covering ten essential Ramadan items and a vegetable basket priced at only 2 dinars.
Sameh Hosni, the Director of the Central Market at Jahra Cooperative Society, mentioned their extensive preparations for this busy season, such as securing necessary stock and offering discounts to alleviate financial pressures on consumers. Additionally, the Rawda and Hawally Cooperative Society provided coupons valued at 80 dinars, along with reductions of up to 50% on over 1,700 items.
Consumers have commended government efforts aimed at controlling prices and ensuring compliance among stores to prevent price manipulation, thus safeguarding consumer rights. Although some imported goods have seen price increases attributed to currency fluctuations and shipping costs, shoppers noted that promotional offerings from cooperative societies and central markets have helped lessen these impacts.
The presence of long queues at cooperative societies highlights the robust demand for Ramadan essentials, while parallel central markets attracted numerous shoppers due to appealing promotional offers.
The most popular items during Ramadan include:
– Cold drinks such as Vimto, orange juice, milk, Qamar al-Din, and Jalab.
– Pasta, pastries, and noodles for breakfast and suhoor.
– Samosas and kibbeh, available either pre-made or as DIY kits.
– Traditional dishes like Harees and Jareesh.
– Ragag bread and oatmeal soup, both staples of the Ramadan table.
– Essential cooking oils, including corn and sunflower oil.
In summary, the commencement of Ramadan has rejuvenated Kuwait’s markets, leading to significant increases in consumer activity and demand for traditional Ramadan goods. Cooperative societies have responded with various promotions to meet consumer needs while managing prices. The bustling markets reflect not only the cultural significance of Ramadan but also the proactive measures taken by local authorities to guarantee consumers access to necessary products.
Original Source: www.arabtimesonline.com
