The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission has started an investigation into the pricing practices in the shipping services market focusing on freight charges between Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
Chief Executive Officer Joel Abraham says while everyday Fijians have been able to benefit from reduced passenger fares and personal vehicle cartage rates, the benefits of reduced freight costs have not been passed to customers in Vanua Levu.
Abraham says it has been brought to their attention that such cost reductions is instead being absorbed by the freight companies or businesses.
He says they will provide an opportunity for businesses to open their books and come out clean and will be holding sessions with them to discuss this.
Abraham says the government has done its part by providing concessions and other incentives to be provided to private sector for purchase of new ships but all these initiatives will amount to nothing if businesses engage in unfair trade practices.
