Joinery company ordered to pay $30,000 fine

A joinery company was charged with one count of accepting payment without being able to supply, contrary to sections 88 and 129(1A) of the FCCC Act 2010.

The company had accepted a payment in the total sum of $7,000.00 from a consumer for the manufacture and installation of a modern deluxe kitchen.

Despite receiving payment, the company failed to deliver the goods and services within a reasonable time.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) had secured a conviction against the joinery company for breaching the rights of a Fijian consumer, following proceedings before the Magistrates Court in Suva.

The matter proceeded to hearing on 21 and 22 July 2025, and judgment was delivered on 15 August 2025.

The Court found that the FCCC had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, and found the company guilty and convicted accordingly.

On 03 September 2025, sentencing was delivered, whereby the Court ordered to the company to pay a fine in the sum of $30,000.00, together with prosecution costs amounting to $500.00

FCCC Chief Executive Officer, Senikavika Jiuta, welcomed the ruling, stating that it sends a strong message to traders about their obligations under the law.

“This conviction should act a deterrent for other traders and reinforces FCCC’s commitment to protecting our consumers.

“We are urging traders not to engage in conduct that exploits consumers by taking payments without supplying goods or services within a reasonable timeframe.

“The FCCC will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against any trader who breaches the trust of Fijian consumers,” Ms Jiuta said.

She further urged consumers to remain vigilant and to always request receipts, invoices, and written agreements when making significant purchases.

Feedback: laiseana.nasiga@fijisun.com.fj