Consumer Council monitoring the prices of 21 basic food items after its VAT removal

Consumer Council of Fiji CEO Seema Shandil says they are actively on the ground monitoring the prices of basic food items after the announcement of removal of VAT from 21 items.

Shandil says they are certain that the reduction in prices of 21 essential items are reflecting the removal of VAT and will address the increase in the cost of living and cushion the blow caused by the pandemic and the soaring international prices.

She is also urging traders to ensure that the VAT removal is reflected in prices of the basic food items announced in the revised budget.

Shandil says they understand that the removal of VAT may come as a challenge for businesses to implement in a short period of time and consumers are requested to double-check their receipts for proper pricing.

The CEO says consumers should keep copies of their receipts as it would prove beneficial in asserting any claims they might have against businesses.

She adds the Council suggests that consumers directly address pricing inconsistencies with businesses however, if businesses fail to address their issues, consumers can lodge their grievances with the Council.