Consumer commission probes excessive prices of garlic, ginger
The investigation follows an outcry by consumers on social media platforms regarding alleged excessive prices of both products by various suppliers.
THE National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into allegations of price gouging relating to garlic and ginger.
The investigation follows an outcry by consumers carried in the media including social media platforms regarding alleged excessive prices of both products by various suppliers.
“The law defines price gouging as an unfair or unreasonable price increase that does not correspond to or is not equivalent to the increase in the cost of providing that good or service,” the NCC said this week.
Consumer and Customer Protection and National Disaster Management Regulations and Directions, issued in terms of Regulation 350 of Government Notice 43116 contains a list of 22 essential products, which a supplier must not charge unfair or at an unreasonable price.
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“This was done to protect consumers against unconscionable, unfair, unreasonable, unjust or improper commercial practises during the national disaster,” the NCC said.
Acting Consumer Commissioner Thezi Mabuza urged consumers throughout the country to monitor the market and where they suspect excessive price increase, file complaints with the commission.
“These allegations, if proven true, would constitute a violation of Regulation 350 and an imposition fine of up to R1000 000 or up to 10 per cent of a supplier’s annual turnover or even imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months,” Mabuza said.
Consumers are urged to lodge complaints by contacting the NCC at 0800 014 880 or 012 428 7000 during office hours.
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