Not Enough Protection for Consumers

Most traders and service providers get away with their unscrupulous business conduct because there is not enough protection for consumers.
This was highlighted by the Consumer Council of Fiji senior manager corporate, Bindula Prasad after the opening of a workshop for traders and consumers in the Western Division at the Sea Breeze Hotel in Lautoka yesterday.
Ms Prasad said it was unfortunate that some legislations in Fiji were quite old.
“Unfortunately, some legislations in Fiji are quite archaic, because these were done when most of us were not born even,” she said.
“Some provide weak protection to the consumers when things go wrong and some do not have the availability of redresses.
“Meaning if a consumer has been cheated and the trader is aware that the wrong has been done to the consumer, there is no redress available.
“This is the very reason why most traders and service providers are able get away with their unscrupulous business conduct.
“Because there is not enough protection given to the vulnerable consumers.”
She said, however, there were a few consumer protection legislations that were in place that provided protection to the consumers.
“We do have some consumer protection legislation in place that provides certain protection to consumers.
“The success of these laws will depend upon the vigilance of consumers about their rights and their responsibilities,” she added.
Edited by Percy Kean
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