As festivals bloom across Fiji, the Consumer Council is urging attendees to remain vigilant about potential pitfalls during these lively events. The influx of festival-goers has led to an assortment of complaints concerning food quality, pricing, and refund disputes. A notable incident involved a consumer claiming they were served stale chicken at a festival stall, which quickly gained traction on social media.
Seema Shandil, the Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Suva City Council, particularly focusing on the Hibiscus Festival. Together, they have been actively monitoring vendor compliance, addressing any infractions on the spot. Shandil stressed that while vendors might encounter pressure from the growing crowds and demand, the imperatives of food safety and fair trading practices must not be compromised.
Alongside concerns about food quality, the Council has issued warnings about unfair pricing strategies and the disposition of outdated goods masked as discounted sales. Festival-goers are encouraged to adopt prudent shopping habits, including price comparisons, receipt retention, and reporting any discrepancies promptly.
This alert echoes a broader trend observed by the Council, where festive periods serve as hotspots for consumer exploitation issues. Historical data has shown a peak in complaints related to food and beverages, particularly around holidays when shopping activity surges. These circumstances necessitate robust market surveillance to ensure consumer protection is upheld.
The Consumer Council’s proactive measures during festival seasons illuminate the importance of ethical business practices and consumer rights awareness. Such efforts aim not only to safeguard consumer interests but also to cultivate a marketplace where fairness and integrity thrive. Initiatives like these foster an environment where the festive spirit can be enjoyed without the blemish of unfair practices. With consumers better informed and vigilant, there is hope for a joyful and safe festival experience across Fiji.