BEIRUT, May 5 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese people flocked to supermarkets and shops on Sunday to prepare for the holy month of Ramadan amid worries about an increase in prices of goods during this period.

"Every year, prices will surely increase during this month," a citizen told Xinhua.

Lebanese Economy Minister Mansour Bteish called on all shops not to take advantage of the increase in demand for products during this month and not to increase their prices as a result.

The ministry also called upon all syndicates and associations to be highly aware in a bid to control market activity, adding that it will take legal measures against those who increase their prices for excessive profits.

Moreover, some cities, including Nabatieh, launched Ramadan festivals, offering citizens food products at reduced prices in a bid to help people who have limited income.

The income generated from this festival will be used to provide people with their Ramadan meals during this month, Elnashra, an online independent newspaper, reported.

Moreover, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Lebanon launched a program to feed 1,440 fasting people during this Ramadan to help those who cannot afford to buy basic products to prepare decent meals at home.