As families in Fiji prepare for the new academic year, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is emphasizing the need for consumers to be alert and well-informed while shopping for back-to-school supplies. FCCC Chief Executive Joel Abraham highlights the financial pressures many parents face and stresses the importance of budgeting and price comparison.

Abraham advises parents and guardians to maximize their shopping efficiency by carefully selecting reputable retailers and staying cautious of misleading promotions. “By doing so, they can ensure their children have all the necessary supplies for the year ahead,” he remarked.

The FCCC plays a regulatory role, specifically overseeing prices for stationery and textbooks through the Counter Inflation (Price Control) (Stationery and Textbooks) (No.24) Order 1993, which outlines permissible profit margins for wholesalers and retailers. To ensure compliance with these regulations, the Commission has already conducted over 140 inspections and surveillances targeting back-to-school items. These efforts are designed to monitor pricing practices and confirm they align with established norms.

A pressing concern this year is the rise of scams associated with school vouchers, which promise significant discounts or free supplies but may lead to financial losses. Abraham cautions consumers to verify the authenticity of any offers before sharing personal or financial information.

Before making purchases, he advises consumers to compare prices across different stores, check product labels for quality assurance, and familiarize themselves with return policies—especially for electronics such as calculators and gadgets. Furthermore, anyone suspecting unfair trading practices or price gouging is urged to report these issues to the FCCC.

As the back-to-school period can lead to exploitation by unscrupulous traders, Abraham calls on the community to remain vigilant. He asserts that consumer awareness and proactive reporting benefit not only individuals but the wider community as well.

In summary, the FCCC’s ongoing commitment to monitoring market practices aims to provide families with a fair shopping experience as they prepare for the school year. By emphasizing price comparison, cautious shopping, and community cooperation, the FCCC fosters an environment where ethical trading is prioritized, ultimately making the start of the academic year a positive experience for all.

This proactive and supportive approach seeks to alleviate the financial strain on families, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—preparing their children for a successful school year ahead.