According to the information obtained by the AA correspondent from the Ministry, inspections of markets, restaurants and cafes continue throughout the year in order to protect consumers against exorbitant prices and to create a fair competition environment in the market.
Inspections were continued effectively, especially before and during the month of Ramadan. In this regard, the teams examined the price tags, especially for basic food and necessity products.
During the inspections, price movements in basic food and necessities such as flour, bread, dry food, oil, milk and dairy products, eggs, red and white meat, tea, sugar, legumes, fruits, vegetables, detergent, soap, shampoo and toothpaste were checked.
38 thousand 216 products were inspected between 19 February and 10 March
In the period between February 19, when Ramadan started, and March 10, 3 thousand 182 businesses and 38 thousand 216 products were examined for exorbitant price increases. As a result of this ongoing audit, if a violation of the legislation is detected, the necessary administrative sanctions will be imposed by the Unfair Price Evaluation Board.
The teams increased these inspections, which they already carry out on a daily and routine basis, just a few days before the Eid al-Fitr.
In this context, in order to prevent consumers from being victimized before the holiday, the labels of basic food and necessity products, as well as desserts, confectionery, chocolate and snacks, which are frequently preferred during holiday shopping, are examined. In addition to the discrepancy between the price on the label and the price at the cash register, the teams also look at the purchase and sale amounts of the products within the scope of unfair price control.
Price tags should be examined carefully by citizens
There are also issues that citizens should pay attention to in order to avoid victimization due to unfair prices.
Consumers need to carefully examine price tags when shopping and compare the price written on the shelf in the markets with the price paid at the checkout.
It is important for citizens to immediately report to the Ministry the businesses and products that cause exorbitant price increases or suspicion of stockpiling while shopping.
In this context, unfair price increase practices can be complained about via Alo 175 Consumer Advisory Line, Unfair Price Increase Complaint Notification System, CİMER, e-Government, provincial trade directorates in 81 provinces and the “Contact the Minister” website.
