Price Control Act Violations Lead to Fines for Multiple Businesses

Bandar seri begawan: In a recent enforcement action, the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS) under the Ministry of Finance and Economy detected 13 offences under the Price Control Act and its regulations during daily inspections. These inspections revealed that several businesses were selling price-controlled goods, such as cooking oil and formula milk powder, above the maximum set price. Additionally, some businesses failed to display price tags correctly, while others displayed misleading price tags on items sold in their premises.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the Department of Consumer Affairs identified two businesses, Mahamas Sendirian Berhad and De Rimba Department Store, which were each compounded BND $700 for exceeding the maximum price set by the price controller and for offences related to the incorrect display of price tags. In separate cases, B Sulaiha Sendirian Berhad and Intelek Enterprise were each fined BND $500 for similar pricing offences. Additionally, Guardian Health and Beauty Sendirian Berhad received a BND $500 fine for issues concerning the display of price tags.

Traders have been reminded to adhere to ethical business practices by ensuring that price-controlled goods are not sold above the maximum price set and that price tags are displayed clearly and accurately to avoid misleading consumers. The DEPS has warned that failure to comply with the Price Control Act and its regulations could result in severe penalties, including a maximum fine of BND $20,000 and imprisonment for up to 5 years for repeat offenders.