Tuesday 21 / July / 2026
MUSCAT: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has seized more than 17,000 expired and tampered cosmetic products during an inspection campaign in Muscat Governorate, uncovering a major case of commercial fraud involving altered expiry dates.
The operation, carried out by the CPA's Department of Commercial Fraud Control, resulted in the confiscation of 17,236 cosmetic products, including 15,753 items with altered expiry dates and 1,483 expired products that were prepared for sale.
According to the authority, inspectors immediately seized the products and referred the case for legal action. The commercial establishment involved was ordered to close by the Public Prosecution pending the completion of legal proceedings.
In a statement issued on Monday, the CPA said the inspection campaign forms part of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers and combat fraudulent commercial practices that pose risks to public health.
The authority confirmed that all seized products have been secured and that legal measures are being taken against those responsible in accordance with Omani laws and regulations.
The CPA urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing cosmetics and personal care products by checking expiry dates, packaging integrity and product labels before use. It also encouraged the public to report suspected violations through its consumer hotline and official communication channels.
Reaffirming its commitment to consumer safety, the authority said it will continue to intensify inspection campaigns across the Sultanate to prevent commercial fraud and ensure that only safe and compliant products reach the market.
