FCCPC Considering Sanctions Against Chinese Supermarket for Violating Nigerian Law

The Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has revealed that an Abuja-based Chinese Supermarket violates Nigerian law for labelling all its products in Yen instead of the Nigerian currency. The commission is considering appropriate sanctions against the owner, Liu Bei, for this infraction, as well as for not allowing Nigerians to shop at the facility.

Adamu Abdullahi, the acting Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, confirmed this development in an interview with Channels TV on Sunday, adding that the owner has been instructed to post a notice allowing entry to all customers.

Last Sunday, concerns were raised by Nigerians regarding the discriminatory policy of the supermarket, which restricted entry solely to Chinese nationals. This prompted widespread condemnation and scrutiny of the establishment’s practices.

Abdullahi stated, “

We discovered that all the products were labelled in Yen, the only currency they accept. That is against the law in Nigeria. Everything sold in Nigeria should be in its currency.

He also mentioned discussions with the owner regarding corrective measures and potential sanctions, including fines and penalties, by Nigerian law.

Additionally, Abdullahi provided updates on enforcement compliance at other stores, such as 4u and Sahad stores, disclosing that they have achieved 95% compliance with directives given by the commission.

Regarding the recent price hike announced by MultiChoice, the FCCPC boss revealed that the company submitted a detailed letter explaining the reasons behind the increase, which is set to take effect on May 1, 2024. While acknowledging the company’s explanations, Abdullahi emphasised the need to assess the justifiability of the increase, considering factors such as the cost of electricity and the exchange rate for spare parts. He warned that if MultiChoice is found to be abusing its dominant position in the market, appropriate actions will be taken by the law.

MultiChoice attributed the price hike to rising business operational costs, prompting price adjustments for DSTV and GOtv packages. Notably, the Premium package on DSTV will now cost N37,000, up from N29,500, while the Compact Plus package increases from N19,800 to N25,000.

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