If there was one positive outcome from the measures that we have taken to ensure the safety of each individual during this COVID 19 pandemic, it is the reinforcement of the practice of proper hygiene in all aspects of our lives. The Food Industry in Fiji, like in many other countries, has always been expected […]

The importance of maintaining social and physical distancing to fight the global COVID-19 pandemic has made many rely on phones, laptops and other devices to stay connected. While the presence of consumers to do their shopping online, zoom for work, webinars for presentations and Moodle for studies, this new normal means options for using physical […]

With many Fijians under financial hardships due to COVID-19, purchasing brand new items may be off their lists. As a result, consumers may opt to purchase second-hand items from individuals or businesses advertising over social media, or through word of mouth. However, when coming across such advertisements, you would have noticed a clause stating “as […]

There is no doubt that many Fijians often end up paying for unsatisfactory goods or services. While some consumers may disregard the faults and end up using the items or services, others tend to demand for a redress in efforts to get value for their money. Unfortunately, some consumers end up facing difficulties in getting […]

How many consumers can honestly say that they have considered how high an interest rate is before signing a credit document? And not just to know what the interest rate is but to also consider how it will impact their repayments? The truth is that there are instances where this is rarely taken into consideration […]

When entering into a tenancy agreement, consumers have certain responsibilities that they must abide by. These responsibilities range from paying rent on time, thoroughly inspecting the property and noting any defects and generally abiding by all terms of the agreed to tenancy agreement.  There are a host of other responsibilities to honour and a key […]

A credit union is a type of financial cooperative that provides traditional banking services. They range in size from small, volunteer-only operations to large entities with thousands of participants spanning the country.  For many years, credit unions have accorded their members an opportunity to save and invest their money. They can be formed by large […]

Mobile phones have become a necessity for millions of people around the world. Everyday consumers utilise phones in different ways with its uses only limited by the imagination of consumers and developers. However, as mobile phone markets grow, counterfeit mobile phones are posing increasing problems for Governments and consumers around the world. Concerns for the […]

Picture this. “You’ve purchased a refrigerator on Hire Purchase for a term of 36 months. You’ve been cautious with your payments and have managed to pay off the item completely in 12 months. There is a sense of accomplishment with now owning the good outright and you look at perhaps purchasing another item now that […]

Purchasing goods online can sometimes feel like playing Russian roulette as you can never be 100 percent sure of what you are getting. Many people will be familiar with at least one horror story associated with online shopping, from goods not being received, goods being misrepresented and misleading advertising. While many online retailers will work […]

Consumers have high expectations from hair and beauty salons because they believe they are dealing with professionals. However, disappointment and frustration sets in for many consumers when the desired look and effect is not achieved after the hair or beauty treatments. Many times, a visit to these beauty and hair salons can cost an arm […]

The consumption landscape now operates in a dynamic changing environment. The use of smart phones and laptops/desktops has resulted in the spread of E-commerce. As more consumers shift their lives online, the demand for trade facilitation over the internet increases. More consumers opt for convenience and choose to shop from a monitor at a remote […]

Mobile phones have in many ways become a convenient tool for many consumers. The devices not only help people communicate but enable people to access many other functions like gaming, interacting with other people through the internet, listening to the radio, taking pictures – an all in one tool.  Today many consumers struggle to tell […]

So you have gone through the process of applying for a Debit Card and have finally been issued with one. This new card offers many advantages for consumers and gives them the opportunity to shop online, giving them more choice than ever before. But while you may be eager to test out the new markets […]

With just a week left until Easter Celebrations many consumers will be looking to take advantage of deals being offered by traders. The extended Easter holidays offer a chance for families to get together and this year will be no different.  The allure of Easter advertising can be so great, enough to draw a consumer […]