The Consumer Council of Fiji has revealed concerning findings regarding unsafe and unethical trading practices just as the Diwali season approaches. Through comprehensive market surveillance, the Council conducted 353 inspections across Suva, Lautoka, and Labasa, specifically targeting supermarkets, open markets, and retail outlets that sell popular festive goods like sweets, dairy products, decorative lights, and fireworks.
During these inspections, serious violations were identified, including expired dairy items, fungal growth in pre-packed garlic, tampered expiry dates on sugar packets, and resealed or damaged food products. Moreover, instances of misleading advertising that featured undisclosed promotion validity periods and exaggerated claims of “special offers” were recorded.
Seema Shandil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, stressed that these findings indicate weak compliance with health and safety regulations and highlight the need for increased vigilance from both traders and consumers. While many traders cooperated and promptly addressed issues onsite, formal warnings were issued for severe breaches, and minor infractions received verbal warnings.
The Council is collaborating with municipal authorities, market associations, and enforcement agencies to ensure that traders uphold their legal obligations during this crucial festive period. Consumers are urged to remain alert and report any unsafe or unfair trading practices they encounter via the National Consumer Helpline at 155 or through the Council’s social media platforms.
This proactive approach reflects ongoing efforts to promote accountability and consumer safety, echoing past initiatives by both the Consumer Council and the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC). With heightened monitoring, including inspections to prevent price gouging and deceptive marketing practices, there is a concerted effort to safeguard consumers from exploitation, particularly during high-demand seasonal spikes.
As the festive celebrations draw near, the Council emphasizes the significance of vigilance, urging consumers to thoroughly check products before purchase and to be mindful of potential scams, especially in online marketplaces. While Diwali is a time of joy and celebration, it also calls for prudent shopping practices to protect consumers from unethical behaviors in the marketplace.