Dubai: The UAE has urged consumers to report any sudden price hike as it seeks ways to curb inflation.
Consumers can register their complaints on a toll-free number which will prompt the authorities to crack down on the errant retail outlet, officials said.
The Consumer Law, enacted in 2006, which paved the way for the creation of the Consumer Protection Department, imposes obligations on suppliers of goods or services, and gives rights and remedies to aggrieved consumers.
"We need time to make the law effective. We also need to educate the businessmen and consumers. We're very keen that all sectors in the next few years will adhere to that," said Abdullah Mohammad Al Shehi of the Department of Economic Development.
The move comes a day after the Ministry of Economy and the Union Co-Operative Society signed an MoU to set prices of 16 essential food items at last year's levels.
"The Federal Law No. 24 of 2006 concerning consumer protection will radically change the way businesses will be conducted by setting out ground rules for consumer transactions," said Jehad Kazim, manager of the Better Business Desk at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Consumer Protection Department can investigate consumer complaints and may represent consumers in the courts or other agencies.
The law stipulates a fine of not less than Dh1,000 for any violation and not less than Dh10,000 if the supplier does not alert consumers to the risks of using the products and harm occurs. "The court has the power to order the confiscation and destruction of certain products that are deemed unsafe or seriously defective," Hugh Parris, an associate at Clyde&Co, said.
The awareness campaign, however, is seen as a move to control prices. "We hope this will encourage everybody in the supply chain to keep prices from rising," Ashraf Ali, executive director of LuLu Group of Companies, told Gulf News.
Complaints: Just pick up the phone
As specified in the law, the consumer has the right to be protected against unsafe products, right to request a recall, replacement, repair or refund of any defective products, among others. Any aggrieved consumer can call the Ministry of Economy's toll-free number 600522225 or visit the ministry's website www.economy.ae/e-complain
