March 22, Colombo (LNW): In the lead-up to the Sinhala and Hindu New Year, the Consumer Affairs Authority has rolled out an intensified programme of inspections beginning on March 20, aiming to protect the public from unfair trading practices during the busy festive period.
Officials say the initiative comes amid concerns that certain businesses could take advantage of ongoing global uncertainties—particularly tensions affecting the Middle East—to manipulate local markets. There are fears that such conditions may be used as a pretext to artificially limit the availability of key essentials, including food, cooking gas, and fuel, while simultaneously pushing prices beyond reasonable levels.
To counter these risks, the Authority has mobilised its investigation teams for continuous duty, ensuring coverage throughout weekends and public holidays. The operation will focus heavily on warehouses and wholesale distribution centres, where authorities suspect hoarding and stockpiling could occur. Traders found engaging in such practices are expected to face firm legal consequences.
The enforcement drive will also target a range of common violations. These include selling goods above the maximum retail price or marked price, failing to display prices clearly, distributing expired or inferior products, and neglecting to issue proper receipts. Officials stress that such practices undermine consumer trust and disrupt fair competition.
In addition, gas suppliers and fuel stations will be kept under close scrutiny to guarantee steady availability and prevent supply disruptions during the festive rush.
The Authority has instructed its officers to adopt a zero-tolerance approach, promising swift action against any individual or business that breaches regulations.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unfair market behaviour via the CAA’s hotline, 1977, during standard working hours.