Home GCC Qatar Qatar bans minimum charges in restaurants Currently many F&B establishments in the emirate force customers to place a minimum order by Staff Writer June 26, 2016 Qatar’s Ministry of Economy and Trade has banned restaurants, coffee shops and hotels from issuing a minimum charge or order demand to customers. Currently many food and beverage establishments in the emirate force customers to place a minimum order, according to local publication The Peninsula. The ministry said the minimum order system forces customers to have a consumption level that could exceed their needs, violating article 10 of law No.8 relating to consumer protection. It also argued that minimum orders encouraged overconsumption and overspending in contrast with the teachings of Islam. The ruling impacts the revision of prices on menus, adverts and bills and signs stating a minimum charge. Coffee shops, restaurants and hotels in Qatar have been given 30 days to end the minimum charge practice or any other method that controls consumption levels. After this period it will carry out inspections and carry out legal action against any outlets found not to be abiding by the rules. The new ruling is part of the ministry’s Ramadan imitative to regulate and monitor the markets and business activities in the country. 0 Comments