council aware of businesses rounding-off transaction amounts

THE Consumer Council of Fiji says it is aware that there are businesses engaging in unauthorised practice of rounding-off transaction amounts.

Council CEO Seema Shandil said a number of consumers had raised concerns regarding this unfair practice employed by certain businesses when processing transactions through e-platforms such as mobile money wallets and electronic funds transfer at point of sale (EFTPOS).

She said consumers had complained that when they paid via digital platforms, some businesses had been rounding off transaction amounts, resulting in consumers paying more than the actual price.

Ms Shandil reminded all businesses that such practices were unacceptable and directly violated consumer rights.

She said rounding-off transaction amounts not only led to financial loss for consumers but also eroded trust and confidence in digital payment systems.

“Businesses are legally obligated to conduct transactions in a transparent and fair manner, accurately reflecting the exact value of goods and services provided,” Ms Shandil said.

“Consumers have the right to be informed and aware of the precise amounts they are being charged, especially in the increasingly prevalent digital economy.

“As the apex consumer protection agency in Fiji, the Council takes these complaints seriously and will not hesitate to take necessary actions against any business found engaging in such practices – including naming and shaming them.”