The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has welcomed the recent announcement of the back-to-school initiative.

The $200 per child back-to-school initiative which was announced by Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka has received accolades from FCCC as a measure to reduce the burden inflicted on children with the increases in living expenses brought on by the state of the world economy.

FCCC CEO Joel Abraham said with Fiji being a price taker, and thus subject to the whims of global price movement, this leaves families susceptible to the increasing cost of living.

“This direct assistance will not only help thousands of families but will also create a multiplier effect contributing to economic growth,” Mr Abraham said.

“With the commencement of a new academic year, this is a very innovative approach targeted at the welfare of our school children, the future generation of Fiji.”

Meanwhile, FCCC will continue its enforcement efforts, including pre-back-to-school inspections, surveys, and awareness campaigns, to make sure that businesses are compliant and that customers are not misled.

When purchasing school supplies, FCCC encourages all customers to continue exercising their legal and moral rights and obligations and to report any unethical or unfair business practices they may come across.

Story by: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj