Authorities crackdown on shops overcharging for staples

Ministry of Economic Development has said that the authorities had started a crackdown on shops charging customers over the controlled price range for staple products.

Government made the decision to cut subsidies on staples to the general public and give them only to the poor – starting from October 1.

Despite the change, prices of staples are still controlled by the government.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Adam Thaufeeq spoke to “Sun” this Wednesday and said that the authority had started checking shops after receiving complaints that some were overcharging customers for staples.

Thaufeeq said that those found overcharging their customers would be fined, and even have their license revoked if they continue to overcharge customers.

“We are checking the places as they are reported. We will mete out strict punishments. We will ensure that the people receive the goods at a fair price,” said Thaufeeq.

Ministry of Economic Development has asked the public to immediately report such issues to the authority, no matter which place in the country it takes place in.

Some shops have been selling staple products over the controlled price; one kilo of rice – which should be sold for MVR 7.96 is being sold for MVR 9 or MVR 10, one kilo of flour – which should be sold for MVR 5.96 is being sold for MVR 7 or MVR 8; and customers are being overcharged for sugar as well.

The controlled prices for staple products is higher on the atolls, but there have been reports of shops charging its customers even more than that.