Sri Lanka warns errant traders: 5500 detections across the Island

Apr 09, 2015 (LBO) – Sri Lanka’s government has detected 5500 errant traders in the past three month period stating Jan 2015 and warns a 10,000 rupees fine and six months imprisonment for sole owners and up to one million fine for supermarket chains for tampering with labels and price changes.









“We have strengthened the detection of errant traders by increasing the number of Consumers Affairs Authority (CAA) detection officials and from 2015 January to April 07, we made 5500 detections across the country, of which 1500 alone reported from 1st to 7th April,” the Minister of Industry and Commerce said in a statement. “We are continuously visiting all private and public warehouses and stores to ensure there are no damaged or unsuitable items packed in them.









We want to see clean warehouses,” “I and CAA strongly warn sellers, warehouses, stores and supermarkets not to tamper with labels and change prices, expiry date etc in any way.” The ministry said, if found tampering, a fine of 10000 rupees and six months’ imprisonment will be the result for any sole business-owner and up-to one million fine for private firms and supermarkets. The Budget 2015 presented by Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake reduced prices of 13 essential items and fuel prices in the Island.









Ministry also asked the consumers not to buy products that do not identify the producer or importer. “We have been informed that at some fashion and clothing sales stores, outdated clothes are on sale for the season saying they are brand new, this too is illegal,” “We are keeping the hotline 1977 open and any affected consumer can call and report to us immediately.”