FCCC warn traders to follow the law

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission are warning all traders not to engage in any unethical practices after VAT increased to 15 percent from today for items that are not under the zero-rated items.

While speaking at a press conference this afternoon, FCCC CEO Joel Abraham says following the budget announcement, they have undertaken more than 800 inspections and surveys around the country.

He says 20 traders have been found breaching the law, and the common breaches were to do with the display of prices as well as overcharging.

Abraham says over the last six weeks, they have collected baseline data through multiple surveys, and they are currently carrying out a joint surveillance exercise with the FRCS and Consumer Council of Fiji.

He further says there have been numerous instances where people have reported increases in price before the 1st of August, but these increases have been isolated - not to the changes in VAT but the changes in the cost structure such as transportation and supply cost.

Abraham is reminding traders that any changes to the price of any goods and services that are not attributed to changes in taxes will have to be explained by the trader, and if there is no reasonable explanation, FCCC will take action as this constitutes over charging.

The CEO says to ensure a smooth transition, they have increased their ground enforcement activity to ensure compliance in alignment with the recent budget changes.

He says they have intensified their inspections and market surveyors to continue their practice of ensuring fair trade in the market as well as consumer protection.

Abraham further says by closely monitoring the market, they aim to safeguard consumer interest and any potential exploitation of consumers.

He adds they hope to maintain a fair and competitive market place and consumers are urged to contact them or the Consumer Council of Fiji if they have any complaints against a trader or suspect a trader not following the law.