Bahrain's retail business has declined by more than 70 per cent in the last two weeks.

Traders across the country, but particularly in Manama, have been hard hit by ongoing protests at the Pearl Roundabout.

'The unrest has to end now and should not be prolonged,' said Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) retail sales and traditional markets committee head Jawad Al Hawaj.

'This is a critical situation and we must all understand it is not in our interest to let it continue for even a moment longer.'

Al Hawaj said the loss of business had been due to fewer customers stepping out of their homes.

'We see people now indulging only in necessary and essential purchases, mainly food items and those of daily use,' he told our sister newspaper Gulf Daily News  (GDN).

'All other businesses have suffered as all non-essential purchases are not happening.'

Al Hawaj said malls were also suffering as much as other retailers.

'Sooner or later, the situation will become very bad,' he said.

'People will lose jobs and that will affect everyone.'

The businessman said traders had repeatedly stressed the need for the situation to be resolved and dialogue to begin as soon as possible during meetings.

'We will continue to discuss how we can contribute towards improving the situation,' said Al Hawaj.

The GDN reported yesterday that the Marina Mall, situated next to the Pearl Roundabout, had reported a 50 per cent decline in customers.

A mall official said the biggest issue was access to the building.

Seef Mall also witnessed a drop in trade, but Seef Properties general manager Robert Addison said business appeared to be picking up.-TradeArabia News Service