Premila Kumar calls for FCCC probe into mobile money charges

Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has called on the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) to investigate mobile money providers that fail to clearly disclose their fees and charges, warning such practices could amount to "unconscionable conduct".

The former Consumer Council of Fiji chief executive made the comments on Friday amid growing public concern over M-PAiSA transaction charges.

"There has to be a clear disclosure of all fees and charges when you are dispensing any services. That's a must," Ms Kumar said.

"It should not be more for making profits, because there are other means of making profits. Fees and charges should reflect the service you are delivering," she said.

"If you are not doing that, and you are not disclosing the fees and charges, definitely it's an unconscionable conduct.

"That should be taken to FCCC. FCCC should be able to look into this matter and address it immediately."

Her comments come after Vodafone Fiji this week clarified its M-PAiSA tariff structure, maintaining that all fees were published on its official tariff page and that there were "no hidden charges".

Minister for Communications Ioane Naivalurua said Government would also examine the issue.

"There are hidden costs associated with this. It is something that I need to dig deeper into. I will be calling our providers who are responsible for this."