Review of 2016: Ashit Gunga satisfied with his Ministry’s performance

Minister of Industry, Commerce and Consumer Protection, Mr Ashit Gunga, made a review of his Ministry’s performance for the year 2016. According to him, major achievements were made and serious decisions were taken despite the year being marked by challenges. “We are fully satisfied with the work we have accomplished. Major decisions have been taken like halting the service of Betamax and changing regulations to stop some type of fairs,” he said.

Concerning consumer protection, he stated that 10,000 inspections have been carried out and 3,800 complaints have been registered. “Around 3,450 complaints gave been solved. Most of the complaints we receive concern defective products. For 100 inspections done, 32 of them have been fined for using cooking gas,” he added.

He further explained that in mid-October, a campaign was launched to sensitise consumers not to buy products where prices have not been displayed. “Consumers have the right to choose their products and displaying price is important.”  

Another area where many business persons were fined concerns dealership of second hand vehicles. “The situation was out of control and there was many frauds going on. There was need for amendments. We will not compromise regarding fraud cases. The police is already looking into the matter. We will never tolerate fraudulent activities by importers.”

Commenting on the quality of home appliances, he said “we are taking the decision for better control. There are 20 products that need to pass quality standards before making it to the market.” The Minister announced that traders will be given a window before being subject to the new standards. With the collaboration of the Minister of Finance, MRA has launched a single window system with speedy procedures for import and export.