As Ramadan begins, Kuwait’s markets see a 37% increase in demand for food and goods. Traffic congestion reflects heightened shopper activity, with consumers buying essential items and taking advantage of special promotions. Government efforts to maintain price stability aid in mitigating cost concerns during this high-demand season.
As Ramadan commenced, Kuwait’s markets experienced a notable surge in demand for food and consumer goods associated with the holy month. The familiar traffic congestion around these markets returned, reflecting increased shopper activity among both citizens and residents eager to embark on their Ramadan preparations. Reports indicated a 37% rise in sales leading up to Ramadan, highlighting the season’s significant economic impact.
During a field tour of cooperative societies and central markets, shoppers filled their carts with essential items like pastries, cold drinks, meat, chicken, and vegetables, aligning with traditional Ramadan practices. Abu Khaled, a shopper, expressed the importance of shopping early to avoid price hikes. However, he noted the change in his shopping habits this year due to the national holidays.
Umm Fahd, another shopper, observed price variances between different cooperatives, stating, “Some cooperatives offer real discounts, while others raise prices and then offer so-called discounts. I always compare prices before making my purchases.” This reflects the consumers’ approach to managing budgets during Ramadan.
In response to the increased demand, several cooperative societies introduced special promotional offers for the month, including discount coupons, Ramadan food baskets, and significant bargains on daily necessities. Ahmed Zayed, Manager of Al-Shamiya and Shuwaikh Cooperative Society, shared that shareholders received 120 dinars’ worth of coupons for basic Ramadan items.
The Jahra Cooperative Society also prepared well in advance by ensuring ample stock and offering promotions to ease consumer expenses. The Rawda and Hawally Cooperative Society provided coupons worth 80 dinars and discounts of up to 50% on more than 1,700 products, catering to increased shopper needs.
Consumers appreciated the government’s initiatives aimed at controlling prices, ensuring compliance with regulations to prevent manipulation. Despite some high prices on imported goods due to exchange rate fluctuations, shoppers acknowledged that the promotional offers from cooperative societies significantly alleviated cost concerns. Long queues at register lines underscored the high demand for Ramadan items.
Among the most sought-after items during Ramadan are cold drinks such as Vimto, orange juice, and other refreshments. Essential ingredients for traditional meals include pasta, pastries, samosas, and kibbeh, as well as Ramadan staples like harees and ragag bread. Oils for cooking also remain in high demand, pivotal for preparing diverse dishes.
In summary, the onset of Ramadan in Kuwait has prompted a substantial increase in consumer activity and market sales, with a reported 37% rise. Shoppers are actively purchasing essential goods and taking advantage of discounts and promotional offers provided by cooperative societies. The government’s commitment to price stability and consumer protection has further supported this surge in market activity, illustrating the economic significance of Ramadan in the region.
Original Source: www.arabtimesonline.com
