Traders have been cautioned that anyone caught engaging in unfair trading practices during this period of back-to-school preparations will face immediate enforcement action.
The warning from the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) comes as families across Fiji commence back-to-school preparations following the rollout of the Government’s $200 per child assistance programme.
FCCC chief executive officer Senikavika Jiuta reminded the business community of their legal and ethical obligations under the law, emphasising that heightened consumer demand does not justify inflated pricing or deceptive conduct.
“While many retailers continue to operate responsibly, the FCCC will not tolerate traders who seek to take advantage of families during this critical period,” Ms Jiuta said in a statement issued yesterday.
“Any trader found engaging in price gouging, misrepresentation, or false advertising will face immediate enforcement action under the FCCC Act 2010.”
FCCC regulates the prices of stationery and textbooks under the Counter Inflation (Price Control) (Stationery and Textbooks) (No. 24) Order 1993, which prescribes strict profit margins for wholesalers and retailers.
“This Order ensures fair pricing practices for essential school items,” FCCC stated.
To ensure compliance, FCCC has intensified its monitoring and enforcement activities and since December, its enforcement teams have conducted over 180 inspections and surveillance exercises nationwide, specifically targeting school bags, lunch boxes, stationery and other essential school items.
“Our teams are currently on the ground conducting rigorous data verification. Two rounds of price surveys have already been completed to establish baseline costs, with a third round scheduled for the coming week.
“Any trader found inflating prices beyond the legal limit during this period will face immediate enforcement action,” Ms Jiuta said.
The FCCC is also urging consumers to remain vigilant while shopping, with a reminder that careful planning and budget management are essential during this high-spending season.
“The cost of school supplies can place real pressure on household finances,” Ms Jiuta said.
“By comparing prices, choosing reliable retailers, and staying alert to misleading sales tactics, parents can stretch their dollars further and ensure their children have the essentials for the new school year.”
She also advised consumers to compare prices across multiple stores, inspect product labels to ensure goods are not substandard or counterfeit, and to always confirm refund, return and exchange policies.
“Consumers are reminded to retain receipts for all purchases, particularly for items such as calculators and electronics, as proof of purchase is essential for returns or warranty claims.”
