Businesses are being warned they could face enforcement action if they restrict consumers from buying the quantity of sugar they need.
This was highlighted by the FCCC, saying retailers and traders must not impose purchase limits or ration the amount of sugar a customer can buy, as doing so may breach Section 87(I) of the FCCC Act 2010.
The warning comes as the FCCC's enforcement officers continue inspections across the country to assess market conditions relating to the rationing and conditional selling of sugar at the retail level.
The FCCC says its teams are checking bulk storage facilities, verifying purchase orders, reviewing distribution patterns and monitoring supply chain movements, including the frequency of sugar deliveries and replenishment schedules.
The teams are also engaging with retailers, traders and businesses to establish expected stock availability and how long current and anticipated sugar supplies are expected to remain on shelves.
The Commission says while genuine supply disruptions can happen, businesses cannot introduce their own rationing measures with retailers are not permitted to advertise or sell sugar with conditions that limit the quantity a customer can purchase.
Where stock is available and a consumer requests a quantity of sugar while offering the correct payment, the trader must not refuse or fail to supply the requested amount.
Businesses are also reminded that conditional selling is prohibited.
This includes situations where a product is only supplied if a customer buys another product or spends a minimum amount.
The FCCC says compulsory tie-in sales or bundling arrangements that force consumers to purchase additional goods may also breach Section 87(E) of the FCCC Act 2010.
The Commission says sugar remains a price-controlled item, and retail prices must be assessed, reviewed and approved by the FCCC under the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (Price Control) (Food Item Prices) Order 2024.
It says any trader importing sugar must submit an application to the FCCC before selling the product to consumers, in accordance with Section 44 of the FCCC Act 2010.
The FCCC says any breaches of the Act may be treated as a statutory offence and could result in formal investigations and enforcement action.
Businesses have been advised to review their current sales practices, including policies on bulk purchases and promotional bundles, and ensure frontline staff are properly trained to avoid non-compliance.
Consumers who experience overcharging or unfair trading practices can report these matters to the FCCC by calling 8921991 or emailing helpdesk@fccc.gov.fj.
Consumers can also contact the FCCC's Western Division office on 8911623, Sigatoka residents on 9982437, or the Northern Division office on 8911624.
