Monopolizing the Victuals at the Epidemic Time: A Jurisprudence Comparative Study

Abstract

This research addresses the judgment on (monopolizing victuals at the time of pandemic) and its importance is taken into consideration due to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). In this research, the meaning of pandemic and monopolism are defined and explored. The research has also addressed the types of supplies that are forbidden to monopolize, and what is the judgment on monopolizing food, medicine, and medical equipment. The research has also clarified when controlling victuals is considered to be monopolization. Then the researcher has explained the correlation based on "harm to be removed" as a monopolization. The research has also explored how the Islamic law has removed the harm from people in need. Then the research ends with what the ministry of commerce has done to prevent monopolization and punish the monopolists to protect the consumer's and the merchant's rights equally.