National

Tightening Legislation First Step to Protecting Consumers

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Spending too much money at the grocery store? The Consumer Affairs and Price Control Unit is beefing up its efforts to combat over pricing.

Published

1 year ago

February 20, 2023

Joshua Williams

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Spending too much money at the grocery store? The Consumer Affairs and Price Control Unit is beefing up its efforts to combat over pricing.

The Consumer Affairs Inspectorate is introducing measures to ensure residents are safeguarded. Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis says the first step is tightening legislation.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs is hosting a consumer affairs inspectorate training this week. The event seeks to equip price control inspectors and consumer officers to better handle and regulate prices in businesses around the country.

Chief Price Inspector Reno Smith says while most businesses have been in compliance with price control regulations, there are some, especially on the Family Islands, that seek to take advantage of inflation experienced in the United States. He says consumers should be aware of the power they possess.

Business owners who do not comply with the regulations set can be fined up to $5,000 or face three months in prison.