Ajman clamps down on gas prices

AJMAN // Officials will conduct spot checks on gas distributors during Ramadan, and those caught increasing their prices will be fined up to Dh100,000 (US$27,200). "We are trying to get strict on gas traders. We want to regulate their business because every one [is setting] his own prices and raising them at will," said Mohammed al Marzouqi, head of the licensing department at the municipality.

The initiative is being rolled out during Ramadan to control prices during the holy month, but the fines will remain in place until prices stabilise, officials said. Gas distributors were also warned about half-filling cylinders; those caught doing so will face fines. Prices through the year are generally around Dh50 for a small cylinder of gas, Dh80 for a medium cylinder and Dh150 to Dh160 for a large cylinder, according to Mr al Marzouqi.

Taqiudin Ahmed, 40, who lives in Rashidiya, said a medium cylinder that cost him Dh85 just two months ago recently increased to Dh110. In Sharjah, those caught raising gas prices can be fined up to Dh50,000, according to Khalid Saif, director of price control and consumer protection at Sharjah Economic Development Department. [e-mail]