Consumers are being urged to exercise caution when buying branded electrical products, according to Dharmend Achari, the head of the electrical department at the New Zealand Overseas Trade Corporation (NZOTC). Following the launch of the Schneider Prisma Switchboard at Tanoa Plaza, Achari stressed the crucial need for verifying product authenticity to avoid counterfeit items.
He encouraged customers to utilize the QR code found on Schneider products as a way to confirm their genuineness before making purchases. “You are paying hard-earned money for these products, so it’s essential to ensure that you are spending on the right things,” Achari remarked.
The newly launched switchboard is part of NZOTC’s expanded range of Schneider products available in Fiji and other Pacific islands. Safety was highlighted as a primary concern, particularly given the risks associated with using counterfeit electrical equipment. This initiative is aptly timed, addressing consumer worries surrounding the reliability of locally manufactured switchboards.
Achari noted, “We are not stating that all locally manufactured products are inferior, but rather, many are not type-tested, which raises safety issues.” The introduction of genuine Schneider switchboards aims to reduce the risks linked to product safety, especially in light of recent incidents where locally made switchboards have caught fire or malfunctioned.
NZOTC, serving as an authorized distributor of Schneider Electric in Fiji, anticipates that this initiative will enhance safety standards for electrical products in the region. With Schneider switchboards now available in retail outlets, consumers have access to safer, tested alternatives.
This development offers a positive outlook on market confidence and consumer safety, fostering ethical trading practices in the electrical equipment sector. It aligns with broader consumer advocacy efforts, such as those from the Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission (FCCC), which urge consumers to remain vigilant and informed, especially during peak purchasing seasons. Cultivating a culture of informed consumerism not only promotes safety but also enhances overall product quality in the marketplace.
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