The Mauritian Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection has developed an application called "Ki Pri" that allows consumers to verify the prices of certain products by scanning their barcodes. The app compares the product's barcode with the official database of regulated or subsidized prices. This initiative aims to empower consumers to detect any discrepancies between approved prices, shelf prices, and those charged at the checkout.
The "Ki Pri" app is currently available for download on the Google Play Store for Android devices, with an iOS version expected to be released soon, although no specific date has been provided. The app's effectiveness will depend on the comprehensiveness of the database, the frequency of updates, and the accurate registration of barcodes. If a product is not regulated or is not listed in the system, the app may not produce a usable result.
The Price Fixing and Information System, which the app queries, lists registered products and their maximum authorized prices. This tool is designed to help consumers identify products that are being sold above the approved price. However, it will not be possible to compare all products sold by all businesses using the app. The Ministry of Commerce encourages consumers to report any instances where they are charged more than the maximum authorized price.
Consumers who encounter a situation where they are charged more than the maximum authorized price can contact the Ministry of Commerce at 185, via WhatsApp at 5942 8888, or by email at [email protected]. The Ministry has warned that businesses selling essential products above the subsidized maximum price may face a fixed fine of Rs 5,000.
In the coming days, the Ministry plans to publish the list of covered categories, the number of registered products, and a simple mechanism for submitting proof of observed prices. This additional information will help to further enhance the app's functionality and ensure that consumers have access to accurate pricing information.
The "Ki Pri" app is part of the Mauritian government's efforts to promote transparency and fairness in the retail sector. By providing consumers with easy access to pricing information, the app aims to reduce the risk of price abuse and promote a more level playing field for businesses.
The Ministry of Commerce has encouraged consumers to use the "Ki Pri" app and to report any issues they encounter. The app has the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of Mauritian consumers, and its success will depend on the level of adoption and engagement from the public.
Key points
- The "Ki Pri" app is currently available for Android devices, with an iOS version expected soon.
- The app's effectiveness depends on the comprehensiveness of the database and accurate barcode registration.
- Consumers can report price discrepancies to the Ministry of Commerce via phone, WhatsApp, or email.
