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The publication by Journalist and blogger Dija Jawo about ‘Alvihag’ Supermarket not returning coins as change to their customers, instead gave them sweets and mints in replacement of their money, attracted concerns and condemnations on social media has now paid dividend in favour of concern customers who complained of what they call ‘civilise fraud’.
The publication, as per the press release from the Ministry of Trade has fallen on the right ears of the authorities concern.
In a press releases issued today Monday 5th October, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment informs the general public that some business entities particularly the mini markets ad supermarkets are practicing the habit of not returning monetary change particularly coins to customers upon purchase of items in their business premises. These coins changes are usually replaced with sweets instead.
The release added that such act violates the provisions of the consumer protection Act 2014 which was promulgated to protect consumers from unfair and misleading market conducts. Forcing consumers to purchase those sweets without their consent is a violation of the CP Act 2014, it added.
The Ministry advises all business community particularly mini markets, supermarkets and corners shops are hereby advised to desist from this practice with immediate effect. Any individual who conducts a business transaction with mini markets and super markets should be given their full and complete change in monetary terms.
The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and any business entity found wanting will face the full force of the law. The cooperation and understanding of the business community is highly solicited.