Supplies Control Unit Tickets 153 Retailers for Consumer Violations in 2024

One hundred and fifty three retailers were ticketed last year by the Supplies Control Unit (SCU) for consumer violations.  The unit embarked on a campaign across the country to monitor the compliance of retailers when it comes to pricing of goods as well as the proper display of price labels among others.  The campaign came as part of the government’s plan to protect consumers and contain the cost of goods amid global inflation.  A release from the SCU indicated that of the 153 tickets issued, there were some establishments that were ticketed multiple times.  San Pedro Town saw the most infractions with 29 retailers ticketed.  The second highest number of tickets was given in the Cayo District followed by the Belize District with 27 establishments.  For Belize City, 12 retailers were ticketed while Caye Caulker registered 6 establishments with infractions.  The Toledo District saw the least tickets issued with six business found with violations.  Meanwhile, the Corozal District registered 12; Orange Walk had 15 while the Stann Creek District had 18.  According to the SCU, there are some matters under review.  Love News understands that additional measures have been put in place to expand coverage and improve compliance with the regulations.  Those measures include the unit’s engagement with NEMO San Pedro to train designated persons to identify violations and issue tickets, especially in times of emergency. The Belmopan City Council has also been engaged to report violators to the Trade Licensing Board and identify means of facilitating residents with filing complaints. It is expected later in the year, to have the opening of regional offices in the Orange Walk District and Independence Village with additional personnel.  For now, retailers are being monitored, but this will eventually expand to wholesalers.