Doha, March 18 (QNA) - HE Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani has said the country's markets remain stable and well-supplied, despite ongoing regional tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with Qatar Television, His Excellency said the availability of essential goods across the country is secure, supported by long-term contingency planning and a comprehensive system for monitoring supply chains.

He explained that the ministry's operations center, established more than a decade ago, plays a central role in tracking the movement of goods from entry points to warehouses and retail outlets. The system uses advanced digital tools to monitor stock levels and demand in real time.

More than 300 inspectors are currently deployed to oversee market activity and ensure compliance with regulations. According to the minister, around 3,000 inspection campaigns have been carried out daily since the start of the crisis.

The comments come amid heightened regional uncertainty and disruptions to shipping routes. The minister said Qatar had anticipated such scenarios, including the potential closure of key maritime corridors, and had already developed alternative logistics plans.

"These plans were activated immediately," His Excellency said, adding that alternative shipping routes had been secured and an emergency operations room was now working around the clock in coordination with government agencies and the private sector.

Air freight has also been used to maintain supplies. The minister noted that more than 300 tonnes of essential goods have already been transported by air in collaboration with Qatar Airways, with a target of reaching 1,000 tonnes.

He acknowledged that some global price increases are inevitable due to higher transport costs and rising demand in exporting countries. However, he described these increases as "limited and temporary," expressing confidence that prices would stabilize once conditions improve.

Domestically, he said, large stockpiles are helping to keep prices stable. Authorities are closely monitoring pricing and require retailers to adhere to approved rates. He warned that any attempts to exploit the situation would result in legal action.

His Excellency urged consumers to report violations via a dedicated hotline (16001) and digital platforms, with complaints handled immediately by inspection teams.

The minister also highlighted the role of domestic industry in strengthening food security. Qatar now has more than 138 food factories, with over 2,000 locally produced products available in 2025 — a 9% increase on the previous year.

He described the current situation as an opportunity for the private sector to expand production and invest further in food industries.

On strategic reserves, the minister said Qatar maintains sufficient stocks of essential commodities such as rice, sugar, wheat and oils. He stressed that the country has not yet needed to draw on these reserves, relying instead on existing supplies held by retailers and suppliers.

In terms of services, the ministry continues to operate without disruption, offering more than 500 digital services. Even before the crisis, 95% of its services were already available online.

The minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of transparent communication, noting that the ministry remains active on social media to provide timely updates and guidance to the public. (QNA)