By Buba Gagigo
The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) has raised concerns over the sale of underweight cement bags in the local market, issuing a strong warning to businesses engaging in such practices.
In a statement, the GCCPC expressed its serious concerns over the issue, assuring consumers of its commitment to safeguarding them against fraudulent and unfair practices. “The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GPPC) acknowledges recent concerns regarding the sale of underweight bags of cement in the market. The Commission is deeply concerned by these allegations, and it reassures consumers of its unwavering relent in protecting them from fraudulent, unfair, and deceptive market practices. There is zero tolerance for such practices as they deceive consumers and undermine fair competition within the industry,” the statement read.
The Commission has urged all businesses involved in the sale of cement to review their practices and ensure they comply with the Consumer Protection Act 2014, the Weights and Measures Act 1977, and other relevant laws.
“All the relevant businesses are urged to review their practices and ensure compliance with the Consumer Protection Act 2014, the Weights and Measures Act 1977, and other related laws.”
GCCPC is also calling on consumers who notice discrepancies in the weight or packaging of cement bags to lodge formal complaints. “The Commission encourages all affected consumers to file a formal complaint with the Commission in relation to any discrepancies they observe in the weight of the bagged cement or its packaging,” the statement added.
According to the Commission, under the Consumer Protection Act of 2014, it does not have the authority to independently launch investigations into alleged consumer rights violations.
The Commission emphasizes the importance of following due process, urging consumers to file formal complaints. This step allows the Commission to effectively, efficiently, and sustainably protect their rights. Consumers are reassured that once a formal complaint is submitted, investigations will be conducted in collaboration with the Weights and Measures Bureau. Should any entity be found in violation, appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act 2014 and other relevant laws.
Complaint forms are available on the Commission’s website, https://gcc.gm/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/consumer-proctection-complaint-form.pdf, or at its office in Kotu East. For further inquiries, the Commission can be contacted at 5000033 or via email at info@gcc.gm.