The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has issued a strong warning to maritime operators, vessel owners, agents and port-based businesses, stressing that obstructing FCCC officers in the execution of their duties is unlawful and will not be tolerated.
The Commission said no operator has the right to prevent authorised FCCC officers from carrying out their statutory responsibility to protect passengers from unethical practices such as overcharging and unfair treatment.
With maritime travel increasing during the festive season, FCCC officers have been deployed at major wharves and ports in the Central and Northern Divisions.
For the first time, the Commission has implemented shift-based enforcement operations at wharves, with officers working extended hours to ensure continuous monitoring during peak travel periods.
Under the FCCC (Control of Maritime Shipping Services, Freight Rates and Passenger Fares) Order 2022, all maritime shipping services, freight rates and passenger fares in Fiji are controlled prices that FCCC is legally required to fix, monitor and enforce. The regulation also authorises FCCC officers to enter vessels to ensure compliance.
Section 126 of the FCCC Act further empowers authorised officers to enter premises, including ports, vessels and offices, at reasonable times to obtain information and verify compliance. Section 128 of the Act makes it an offence to obstruct, hinder or interfere with an FCCC officer.
“Any obstruction will be dealt with in accordance with the law, including the taking of statements and the laying of charges where appropriate,” FCCC said.
During the festive season, FCCC will closely monitor passenger fares, freight charges, price displays, compliance with pricing directions and the conduct of operators toward officers.
Passengers experiencing overcharging or unfair treatment are encouraged to report incidents to FCCC promptly, as the Commission continues to enforce consumer protection in Fiji’s maritime sector.
