Social Affairs counters panic buying with visible stockpiles in co-ops

In response to growing military escalation in the region and its potential impact on food security, the Ministry of Social Affairs has adopted a proactive psychological approach to reassure consumers and prevent panic buying.

Through its Cooperative Sector, the Ministry has directed all cooperative societies to prominently display large quantities of essential goods in central markets and branches to visually reinforce the abundance of supplies and discourage unnecessary stockpiling.

Senior ministry sources explained that six field teams have been formed to inspect and monitor strategic stocks of food and consumer goods daily.

These teams submit photo reports every morning and evening, tracking inventory, withdrawal rates, and consumer demand trends. Recent reports show a notable decline in panic buying, especially of high-demand items like water and bread, indicating growing consumer confidence in government measures.

The cooperatives have also intensified awareness campaigns via social media, dispelling rumors of shortages and assuring the public of stable, ample supplies. Daily inventory checks and sales analysis are being conducted to respond to any shifts in demand.

A field tour by Al-Jarida confirmed calm and orderly activity in major cooperative markets and gas cylinder outlets in densely populated areas. Shelves were fully stocked, with no signs of crowding —further validating the effectiveness of the Ministry’s strategy in maintaining public reassurance and food security amid ongoing regional tensions.