Is monopolization restricted to staple foods and provisions, or does it include other commodities?

Monopoly is forbidden because it harms people. The proof of its prohibition is the saying of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him: "No one monopolizes but a sinner." Scholars have differed regarding what constitutes monopoly. Some have restricted it to foodstuffs, while others believe it applies to everything people need and are harmed by its withholding. This latter opinion is the correct one, consistent with the apparent meaning of the hadiths, and is supported by the fatwas of the Permanent Committee for Issuing Fatwas.