The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is intensifying its oversight in the pharmacy sector to promote fair competition and safeguard consumer interests. General Manager Vinitesh Kumar stated that the Commission operates under key legislative frameworks including the FCCC Act 2010, the Pharmacy Profession Act 2011, and the Medicinal Products Act 2011, which empower the FCCC to manage pharmacy licensing, oversee mergers, and regulate medicine pricing.
In alignment with the 2024 Price Control Order, Kumar highlighted that the FCCC is monitoring prices for 75 categories of essential medicines, conducting quarterly reviews to ensure these remain affordable for the public. The Commission’s primary objective is to protect consumers while fostering a transparent and competitive market in the pharmacy sector for all Fijians.
This initiative reflects the FCCC’s broader commitment to enforcing regulations across multiple sectors, aimed at preventing unfair pricing practices and promoting ethical trading. Similar efforts have been seen recently where the FCCC conducted extensive market surveys to identify early signs of price manipulation, demonstrating vigilance in protecting consumer rights during significant economic transitions, such as preparations for the upcoming national budget.
The overarching goal of the FCCC’s activities is to bolster consumer trust in the marketplace, as the organization actively engages with the community and educates the public about their rights. This proactive approach not only contributes to fairer business practices but also inspires a hopeful vision for a more equitable economic environment for Fijian consumers. With the unwavering commitment of the FCCC to ensure market fairness, consumers can look forward to enhanced protections and a marketplace where ethical conduct is the norm.
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