Surcharges on credit card purchases prohibited by law

Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Zayed R. Alzayani met the CEOs of Bahraini banks in presence of representatives from the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).

They talked about some of the companies and establishments that deduct extra amounts from consumers upon purchase of commodities and services using credit cards.

They agreed that was unfair to charge consumers any additional amount over the prices of commodities and services purchased and the banks that provide automatic payment devices require in their contract with companies not to load consumers additional charge.

During the meeting, all agreed that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce will take the necessary actions to prevent this issue, whereas the ministry issued ministerial resolution prohibiting this practice that harms consumers.

Companies that violate this prohibition will be fined up to BD10 thousand based on Consumer Protection Law.

The Ministry will intensify consumers' awareness of their rights and the need to inform the Consumer Protection Department in the event of the commercial shop deducting extra charges.