As the new academic year approaches, families in Fiji are urged to be vigilant during their back-to-school shopping. The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has issued a reminder to consumers, emphasizing the need for careful budgeting and responsible shopping.

FCCC Chief Executive Joel Abraham highlighted the financial pressures many parents face when purchasing school supplies. He encourages families to compare prices, select reputable retailers, and remain cautious of misleading promotions and scams, particularly those offering “free” school supplies or steep discounts. “By being well-prepared and informed, they can maximize their budgets and secure necessary supplies for their children,” Abraham stated.

The FCCC enforces price regulations for stationery and textbooks under the Counter Inflation (Price Control) (Stationery and Textbooks) (No.24) Order 1993, which delineates allowable profit margins for wholesalers and retailers. The Commission is actively monitoring compliance, having conducted over 140 inspections and surveillances focused on back-to-school items to ensure fair pricing practices.

Another notable concern this season is the rise in scams related to school vouchers, which often exploit the urgency of back-to-school shopping. Parents are advised to carefully verify any promotional offers before providing personal or payment information to prevent financial loss.

Additionally, it is recommended that consumers check product labels for quality, familiarize themselves with return policies—especially for electronics like calculators—and keep receipts in case proof of purchase is needed. If any incidents of price gouging or unfair trading practices are suspected, the FCCC encourages reporting these issues promptly to protect community interests.

In summary, the FCCC’s proactive measures aim to create a fairer shopping experience, ensuring families can navigate the back-to-school season confidently. With community vigilance and careful planning, parents can help foster an ethical trading environment, making the start of the academic year a positive experience for everyone involved.