The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has confirmed that cash payments are applicable in nearly all commercial activities. However, there are exceptions where cash payment is prohibited due to ministerial decisions. These exceptions include:

• Domestic Labor Offices
• Car Sales
• Temporary Trade Fairs
• Pharmacies (for transactions exceeding KD10)

The ministry emphasized that no point of sale (POS) has the authority to reject cash payments, reiterating that cash remains a vital part of the payment process in commercial transactions.

Encouraging Additional Payment Methods

Store owners are encouraged to provide consumers with multiple payment options, including electronic methods alongside cash. This initiative aims to enhance customer comfort and facilitate smoother commercial transactions.

Recent Inspections at the Perfume Exhibition

In a related development, the Commercial Control Department of the ministry conducted inspections at the Perfume Exhibition to ensure traders adhere to laws and regulations. These regulations prohibit marketing and promoting goods and services outside designated shops and booths.

The purpose of these inspections is twofold:

1. Consumer Protection: To shield consumers from illegal promotions.
2. Professional Sales Practices: To ensure that sales and promotions occur in a professional manner, without causing inconvenience or pressure to customers visiting booths and stores.

These measures are part of the ministry's commitment to uphold consumer rights and ensure strict compliance with commercial laws, fostering a fair and safe shopping environment.