A thorough inspection initiative focused on festive season trading practices is currently underway in the Western Division from December 8 to 9, spearheaded by the Price Monitoring & Enforcement Taskforce. This operation aims to ensure fair pricing for essential goods, consistent pricing practices, and sufficient stock levels across multiple retailers.
The Taskforce consists of officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, the Fiji Revenue & Customs Service, and the Consumer Council of Fiji. On the inaugural day of inspections, significant violations were detected at various supermarkets, leading to the issuance of notices for several infractions. These included failure to display accurate price labels, outdated products on shelves, and non-compliance with recent VAT reductions.
In addition to these issues, the inspections revealed misleading promotional activities where products advertised as discounted were actually sold at their regular prices. The conditions of many establishments sparked further concerns, reporting problems such as leaking roofs, damaged floor tiles, and unclean shelving and refrigeration units. Particular emphasis was placed on meat quality, with several instances of missing temperature indicators and unclean frozen products.
Authorities stress that these findings serve as a serious warning to retailers trying to exploit consumers during the festive season. The Taskforce has committed to enforcing penalties against those perceived to be deliberately violating regulations.
Inspections continue today in various localities, including Lautoka, Ba, Tavua, Rakiraki, and Korovou. The Ministry of Finance, along with its partners, remains dedicated to protecting families from unfair trading practices and ensuring that retailers adhere to established standards, thus reinforcing consumer rights during this crucial shopping period. This initiative not only aims to ensure compliance but also instills trust in consumers during the festive season, fostering a fair trading environment for all.