Colombo, April 12 – The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has launched a major crackdown on unethical trading practices, conducting 1,200 raids in recent days as part of a special festive season inspection program.
The CAA confirmed that intensified inspections will continue in the coming days, with a strong focus on essential goods, particularly Samba and Kiri Samba rice, eggs, and chicken, which are often sold at inflated prices during this time of year.
Officers have been deployed day and night, including holidays, to ensure consumer protection. Traders found guilty of violating regulations are being held accountable under the law. Offenses being targeted include:
- Failure to display prices
- Selling goods above marked prices
- Altering or falsifying product information
- Selling expired products
- Failure to issue receipts
- Imposing unauthorized purchase conditions
- Hoarding essential items
- Refusing to sell goods
- Misleading discounts and false promotional offers
The CAA stressed that strict legal action will be taken against violators to protect the rights of consumers and ensure fair trade practices during the high-demand festive period.
In addition, the Authority has launched a targeted monitoring program at long-distance bus stop shops, focusing on price violations, overcharging, and the sale of expired or improperly labeled goods.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any irregularities to the Consumer Affairs Authority’s hotline.
