Wednesday 28 / October / 2026
Muscat: Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion has reminded retailers of strict requirements governing commercial discounts, warning that violations can attract an administrative fine of OMR500, which doubles for repeat offences.
The ministry said businesses must obtain a licence before advertising discounts and display the licence prominently inside their stores.
Retailers must also clearly show the original and discounted prices of products, together with the discount percentage, to ensure consumers can make informed purchasing decisions.
Under the regulations governing sales at discounted prices, discounts must generally be at least 20%, except for food products, vehicles, gold, precious stones, jewellery and similar items. Businesses must adhere to the discount period specified in their licence and comply with the approved terms and conditions.
The rules also prohibit retailers from raising prices before applying discounts or advertising misleading offers that exaggerate the savings available to customers. Changes to approved discount rates or periods require the ministry’s written approval.
Another requirement concerns product suitability. Discounted products must remain fit for use for at least 30 days after the discount period ends. Direct and indirect discounts on tobacco products and their derivatives are also prohibited.
The ministry’s reminder underscores the importance of transparency in retail promotions, particularly during seasonal sales and clearance campaigns, when consumers rely on advertised price reductions to compare offers.
