Popular shops amongst those investigated for hiking garlic and ginger prices
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced
it is investigating seven major suppliers of garlic and ginger for price
gouging.
These are Pick ‘n Pay, Food Lovers Market, Woolworths, Spar Group, Shoprite Group, Boxer Superstores and Cambridge Foods.
The investigation follows the public outcry by consumers in the media and on social media about alleged excessive price hikes of both products.
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Acting Consumer Commissioner, Thezi Mabuza, says the commission’s investigation is not limited to the seven suppliers.
“We urge consumers throughout the country to monitor the market and where they suspect excessive price increase, they must 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% of a supplier’s annual turnover or even imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months.”
