The Consumer Council of Fiji is intensifying its market surveillance efforts in response to various concerns related to marketplaces and consumer health. Chief Executive Seema Shandil highlighted that the Council is committed not only to addressing consumer complaints but also to improving public health outcomes.
The initiative includes a focused project titled “Pick More Vegetables,” aimed at encouraging consumers to incorporate more vegetables into their diets, thereby promoting healthier eating habits. Shandil mentioned, “There’s a pressing need for consumers to shift their behavior regarding food choices,” reflecting the Council’s dedication to not only consumer protection but also to combating non-communicable diseases linked to poor nutrition.
Recent dialogue within the Council has reinforced the importance of ethical business practices, particularly given the rise in consumer complaints about food safety and unethical trading. In the past year, similar concerns raised highlighted the prevalence of misleading pricing and unsanitary food conditions, which the Council is addressing through closer collaboration with local municipal authorities.
As part of these efforts, the Council is working to report health-related consumer issues promptly to the relevant authorities, fostering a more transparent and accountable market. The ongoing emphasis on promoting better food choices is part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure the overall well-being of consumers.
These initiatives are part of a hopeful vision to develop healthier lifestyles among Fijian consumers while enhancing trust in the marketplace. The Consumer Council’s proactive stance reflects a broader commitment to safe, healthy eating and fair retail practices, paving the way for an informed and conscientious consumer base.
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