Four urgent proposals aimed at easing economic pressure, protecting consumers and supporting food security due to the Iranian attacks were unanimously approved by Bahrain MPs yesterday and referred to the Cabinet for urgent review, a report in Gulf Daily News, our sister publication, said.
The motions – covering fee relief for companies, tighter control on subsidised flour prices, and the temporary suspension of fishing bans – were tabled under ‘urgent matters’ and won cross-aisle backing.
The first proposal calls for companies to be exempted for six months from fees charged by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), including work permit issuance and renewal, sponsorship transfers and employment contract fees.
Services committee vice-chairman Abdulwahid Abdulaziz Qarata said many firms were facing revenue drops of 40-60 per cent in sectors such as contracting, tourism, retail and logistics.
“Companies are struggling with cash flow while costs of labour, rent, energy and shipping continue to rise,” he said.
“LMRA fees represent a heavy recurring burden. A temporary exemption will help businesses survive, protect jobs and prevent closures.”
The proposal also seeks rescheduling of existing arrears without penalties. “These are practical, time-bound measures,” Mr Qarata added.
“They reflect Parliament’s responsibility to respond quickly to people’s needs.”
A second urgent motion urges authorities to tighten oversight on subsidised flour to prevent price manipulation and misuse of government support.
Strategic Thinking Bloc member Bassema Mubarak alleged that illegal practices had been observed in the market.
“Subsidised flour is directly linked to bread prices and daily food security for citizens,” she said.
“Any manipulation wastes public funds and increases living burdens. We need stricter inspection campaigns and deterrent penalties to close loopholes.”
The proposal calls for intensified market monitoring and legal action against violators to ensure subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries. Ms Mubarak added: “Oversight and enforcement protect both public funds and consumers.”
Two separate urgent proposals focused on fisheries and food supply, calling for the temporary suspension of existing bans due to regional security tensions and supply chain disruption.
Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Anq said continuing to enforce Resolution No (2) of 2024 – which bans the fishing of Safi, Shaari and Andaq – from today to May 31 risks worsening shortages and price hikes. “With imports affected and prices rising, we must rely more on local production,” he said.
“This is a temporary, precautionary measure to balance environmental protection with food security and market stability.”
A broader proposal urged suspending seasonal fishing bans altogether this year and extending the fishing season to support fishermen and ensure market supply.
MP Mohammed Al Olaiwi said fishermen had already lost days at sea due to security risks. “They risked their lives to secure food for the market,” he said.
“It is our national duty to support them, not restrict them further during a crisis. Fish are a backbone of Bahrain’s food security.”
Mr Bu Onk stressed that flexibility is needed in times of crisis, while Mr Al Olaiwi said supporting fishermen and businesses alike was essential to safeguarding food supply and jobs.
Despite addressing different sectors, MPs said the four proposals share a common goal – protecting livelihoods, stabilising markets and easing pressure on citizens and businesses during exceptional circumstances.
All four proposals were referred to the Cabinet for urgent consideration.
