As families in Fiji prepare for the new academic year, they are facing rising pressure due to increased school supply prices. This situation comes just as the Back to School Assistance program begins, which is set to run until December 15, with payments starting from January 17. Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel has acknowledged the inflation of costs by some traders and reassured citizens that the Ministry is collaborating with the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) to address these issues.
Immanuel stated, “Yes, those instances sometimes happen. And we have FCCC, who is our partner in that regard. So we’ll ensure that those instances don’t happen again.” This commitment includes enhanced monitoring and engagement with enforcement agencies to keep essential school supplies affordable for all families.
The FCCC has been proactive in its approach during this busy shopping season, having conducted over 140 targeted inspections and surveillances to ensure compliance with regulations governing pricing. Chief Executive Joel Abraham has emphasized the importance of budgeting and planning for parents amidst these financial pressures. He encourages families to compare prices, opt for reputable retailers, and remain vigilant against deceptive promotions and scams, particularly regarding school vouchers that promise significant discounts.
“By doing so, they can ensure their children have all the necessary supplies for the year ahead,” Abraham noted. The FCCC enforces pricing regulations for stationery and textbooks through the Counter Inflation (Price Control) (Stationery and Textbooks) (No.24) Order 1993, which delineates permissible profit margins for wholesalers and retailers in this sector.
The FCCC remains committed to creating a fairer shopping experience for families, aiming to promote ethical trading practices. By staying informed and cautious, consumers can protect their interests and contribute to a sense of community resilience as they navigate this critical period. The integrity and efforts of the FCCC support an environment where families can confidently prepare for a successful academic year ahead.