The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is urging consumers to remain alert while shopping during the Christmas season. As spending and promotions surge, including an increase in online transactions, there is a heightened risk of dishonest traders misleading shoppers. Chief Executive Senikavika Jiuta emphasized that the Commission is implementing enhanced monitoring operations with rotating shifts to bolster consumer protection during this festive period.
This proactive strategy allows enforcement officers to conduct inspections at shops, supermarkets, and service providers that operate late into the night, effectively combating unfair business practices. Since last month, FCCC enforcement teams have conducted 657 pre-Christmas surveillance inspections across the country, targeting sectors such as shipping services, hardware stores, motor vehicle retailers, hotels, pharmacies, retail outlets, and supermarkets.
Jiuta disclosed that numerous violations were found during these inspections, including overcharging, lack of price displays, false advertising, selling expired products, and insufficiently marked pull dates. The night shift teams specifically focus on monitoring shipping service providers to prevent unfair trade practices, which include overcharging on regulated fares and freight charges.
To enhance road safety compliance, FCCC is collaborating with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, the Fiji Police Force, and the Land Transport Authority to monitor vehicle tonnage regulations. Additionally, ongoing partnerships with health inspectors have increased the Commission’s ability to ensure that consumers benefit from duty and VAT reductions.
Recent joint inspections have uncovered serious violations in supermarkets, particularly in the Western Division, where 14 breaches were identified. These included the sale of expired products and poor food handling practices, which increase risks of cross-contamination. Jiuta encourages consumers to actively protect their rights and stay informed as they navigate the bustling shopping season.
These initiatives underscore the FCCC’s strong commitment to safeguarding consumers, ensuring that the festive season remains a delightful experience free from the pitfalls of unethical trading practices. By promoting vigilance among shoppers, the Commission aims to foster an environment where fair competition prevails, ultimately enriching the overall holiday shopping experience.