Bahrain's vegetable supplies will not be affected by a recent ban on European vegetables because of the E.coli outbreak, a top official said.

Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro said that Bahrain mostly relied on Arab countries for importing vegetables.

He was speaking following inspection visit to various markets in the country.

The minister was told that there was good supply in the market of all types of vegetables and fruits imported from many countries, especially Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria and Saudi Arabia.

'Bahrain relies heavily on Arab countries as well as Turkey, India and Pakistan,' said Dr Fakhro.

'The ban on European vegetables in Bahrain did not affect the abundance and supply,' he added.

The minister visited Manama Central Market and Carrefour at Bahrain City Centre.

Dr Fakhro was accompanied by officials and was briefed that prices continued to decline because of the abundant supply of all imported vegetables and fruits.

With regard to meat supply, butchers confirmed the availability of required supplies in the market offered by Bahrain Livestock Company.

The company is now scheduling the arrival of shipments of live sheep and cattle to prepare for Ramadan, according to officials.-TradeArabia News Service