The Kurdistan Region’s Trade Ministry has warned retailers against selling school uniforms at excessive prices ahead of the new academic year.
Families have complained about a sharp increase in school uniform prices. They also say some shops sell low-quality uniforms at prices normally charged for better-quality products.
Several residents said uniform prices have risen significantly in local markets. They also criticized what they described as weak monitoring of retailers.
One resident said a school uniform for elementary students cost 10,000 dinars about a month ago. The same uniform now costs 40,000 dinars at the same location.
Nawzad Sheikh Kamil, Director General of Trade in the Kurdistan Region, issued the warning on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
He urged residents to report shops that charge unusually high prices for school uniforms. Trade inspection committees will investigate reported cases and take legal action when they find violations.
Sheikh Kamil said controlling prices requires cooperation between authorities, retailers, and consumers. He explained that inspection teams will focus on markets where residents report significant price increases.
The teams will compare purchase and selling prices before taking action. Officials will use the findings to determine whether retailers have raised prices unfairly.
“We will not allow monopolistic practices,” Sheikh Kamil said, stressing the importance of market monitoring.
He also called on parents to avoid buying school uniforms from shops that clearly charge excessive prices. Instead, he encouraged families to report such retailers to the relevant inspection committees.
The warning comes as families prepare to purchase school supplies and uniforms for the new academic year. Rising costs have increased concerns among parents who must cover several education-related expenses.
Authorities say stronger market monitoring can help protect consumers and prevent unjustified price increases. They also want retailers to maintain fair pricing and provide products that match their advertised quality.
The Trade Ministry’s latest warning highlights the growing pressure on local markets as the new school year approaches.
For families, however, the immediate concern remains the cost of school uniforms. Parents are now being encouraged to report excessive prices and help authorities identify retailers who violate pricing rules.
