To protect consumer rights and promote fair trade, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority addressed nearly 160 complaints during the 2024-2025 fiscal year. According to a latest report, complaints included issues related to defective products, non-delivery of goods, and unfair business practices, amongst others. The highest number of complaints was received from Thimphu Thromde.
In response to complaints about contaminated and defective products, the authority addressed 26 complaints involving problems with vehicles, electronic goods like television, fuel quality and fast-moving consumer goods such as bread, rice and beverages.
Non-delivery of goods and services was another issue. The authority resolved 23 such complaints involving undelivered items including garments, vehicle spare parts, kitchenware, construction materials, and school supplies.
The authority’s interventions resulted in refunds worth over Nu 500,000 to 29 consumers.
Beyond financial refunds, several cases involving defective products were addressed through repair and replacement.
Meanwhile, a business entity was fined over Nu 300,000 for misleading the consumers. Violation included false advertisement, sale of fake or substandard products and hidden terms and conditions.
The authority reported receiving both individual and general complaints.
Furthermore, the authority has closed ten illegal pyramid and ponzi scheme operations.
Through market surveillance, the authority along with other stakeholders, examined more than 3,200 business firms.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Tshering Zam
