Irbid, Feb 17 (Petra) - Markets in northern Irbid governorate are witnessing robust commercial activity as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, with citizens increasing their purchases of essential food supplies and seasonal goods.
Shopping activity in the main city center markets has been notable, driven by high demand for staples such as rice, sugar, vegetable oils, and flour, alongside meat, poultry, dates, and dairy products. Demand also rose for Ramadan juices, traditional beverages, and dessert ingredients.
Local residents said they were prioritizing essential purchases based on available discounts and purchasing power while avoiding long-term stockpiling. Consumers noted that prices remain stable due to competition among retailers and promotional offers launched by malls and large supermarkets.
Acting Governor of Irbid, Raed Al-Jaafara, told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that an integrated plan involving all relevant provincial authorities has been established to regulate markets and ensure sufficient stock of all commodities. He added that health inspections have been intensified to verify food safety, quality, and fair pricing.
Al-Jaafara noted that additional traffic officers have been deployed to manage congestion, particularly in the commercial center and the heart of the city, which is experiencing significant traffic due to the pre-Ramadan shopping rush.
President of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce Mohammad Al Shuha said commercial activity in the governorate began to improve during the final week before Ramadan. He described the season as a vital opportunity for the commercial sector, particularly for food suppliers, confectioners, and restaurants.
Al-Shuha added that markets are well-stocked with various Ramadan commodities, confirming that supply chains are stable and there are no signs of shortages in basic materials. He said the Chamber remains in constant contact with relevant authorities to monitor market conditions and ensure a smooth flow of supplies.
He emphasized the importance of this period in stimulating the local economy and supporting a wide range of traders and small-to-medium enterprises. He urged citizens to purchase according to their actual needs and avoid excessive stockpiling.
//Petra// AF
