The Consumer Protection Authority recently held an event at the Muscat Innovation Complex in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation to showcase its achievements in innovation. Dr. Ali bin Salem al Qalhati, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs of CPA, presided over the event. Aida bint Issa al Zadjaliyah, Director of the Innovation and Development Department, provided valuable insights into the Authority's innovative endeavors and institutional growth.
The establishment of the Innovation and Development Department in 2017 marked a significant milestone for the Authority, with a focus on fostering innovation through structured management practices. The department, consisting of two key sections - Innovation and Development, plays a crucial role in guiding the Authority towards its objectives through a professional and creative approach.
Institutional innovation is a central component of the Authority's strategic plan for 2021-2025. The Authority has been dedicated to creating a conducive environment for innovation and development, evident through initiatives such as appointing innovation representatives in various departments, forging partnerships with innovation-supporting entities, and launching the Innovation Chamber.
Moza bint Abdullah al Shuailiyah, the Head of the Data and Statistical Data Department, presented a detailed analysis of the Authority's price observatory initiative. She highlighted the electronic price observatory's extensive database, encompassing over 72,000 commodities from 24 sectors, including food and luxury goods. This user-friendly system enables users to input data at both the governorate and local levels, empowering consumers to compare prices across various branches of commercial centers.
Khalifa bin Hamoud al Raqqadi, Director of the Information Technology Department, showcased three examples of institutional innovation implemented by the Authority. These innovations consist of a remote attendance system accessible through smartphones, which enhances time management and performance. Additionally, an office phone application system was introduced to facilitate communication and fieldwork for inspectors. Lastly, the Authority's website (Hima) launched a digital identity initiative. These innovative measures are aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in monitoring market regulation and combating commercial fraud.
