Financial scams and fraud have emerged as the leading complaints for the second consecutive year, according to Seema Shandil, CEO of the Consumer Council of Fiji. She revealed that the council received a total of 958 reported cases of financial fraud, accounting for 29 percent of all complaints.
“This highlights the growing concern over fraudulent activities in Fiji,” Ms. Shandil stated. Following financial issues, food and beverage-related complaints ranked second, with 508 cases logged. These complaints included concerns about expired products, spoiled food, and sanitation issues in restaurants.
Furthermore, disputes between landlords and tenants remained a significant issue, with 467 complaints filed. Issues facing tenants included landlords withholding bond refunds, unlawful utility disconnections, improper eviction notices, rent hikes amid a rent freeze, lack of tenancy agreements, and failure to issue rent receipts.
Ms. Shandil emphasized that these three categories underline critical consumer issues. “While significant efforts are being made to combat fraud and scams, the high volume of complaints indicates a pressing need for the public to stay alert and make informed choices regarding financial dealings,” she noted.
The council is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the National Food Safety Taskforce to tackle food safety concerns and improve standards for consumers. However, the council remains concerned about ongoing challenges in resolving landlord-tenant disputes, particularly due to a lack of comprehensive legislation to protect the interests of both parties.
Despite these challenges, Ms. Shandil affirmed the council’s dedication to finding fair and amicable solutions that uphold the rights and interests of all parties involved.