The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) conducted a substantial total of 804 inspections during the Christmas trading period last year, which included 137 targeted night-shift operations. This initiative was part of an enhanced regulatory effort to ensure compliance among traders across the Central, Western, and Northern divisions during the festive season, covering a wide range of sectors including retail traders, rental premises, maritime operations, and fuel supply.
FCCC’s chief executive, Senikavika Jiuta, reported that as a direct outcome of these efforts, 41 traders were either warned about potential prosecution or placed under investigation for suspected violations of the FCCC Act 2010. The night-shift operations specifically targeted areas known for high-risk trading and past non-compliance, including pre-Christmas and pre-New Year inspections at ports and wharves.
These operations were strategically planned, with Ms. Jiuta emphasizing that enforcement efforts do not cease after traditional business hours. From the night-shift inspections alone, four breaches were flagged, alongside four health-related issues that were forwarded to local municipal councils for action.
Among the most common infractions found during both daytime and night inspections were failure to comply with Price Control Orders, refusal to sell goods at authorized prices, and inadequate price display. Ms. Jiuta firmly stated that increased trading activity during the festive season does not exempt traders from compliance obligations, and she warned that the FCCC will not tolerate overcharging or disregard for legal standards.
In addition to these inspections, the FCCC has commenced its first round of back-to-school stationery surveys in preparation for the upcoming school year. The results of these surveys will be shared via the FCCC’s social media platforms to aid parents in managing their back-to-school expenses effectively.
The FCCC’s ongoing commitment to regulation and enforcement serves to protect consumers and ensure fair trading practices, fostering confidence in the market as families prepare for the new school year ahead.