Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation Minister Andrew Baasaron who advised citizens to file a complaint at the price inspection division of the ministry so that an investigation could be launched. At the launch of the SRD Check app Minister Baasaron explained that the application enables consumers to check the recommended retail price of about 20 basic goods before comparing it with the price that is on the price tag in the retail stores. When consumers notice that the retail price is not in accordance with the guidelines, they should not engage in a discussion with retailers. “I myself would advise them to send a message via WhatsApp to the Economic Control Division (ECD) which inspects the prices,” said Minister Baasaron who added that posters that promote the SRD Check app will include a WhatsApp number as well as a phone number so that consumers could report the irregularities.

“People can call and file their complaints. Avoid confrontation with retailers. That is for us to handle,” said Minister Baasaron who added that the ECD will launch an investigation to determine if the retailers have committed a violation. The ministry wants to give consumers a clear picture of the price of basic products such as potatoes, onions and other basic goods. It hopes that this transparency will encourage retailers to stick to the official retail prices. Minister Baasaron explained that the app will help the ECD to use its resources and manpower more efficiently and also more effectively as it will be able to detect stores that do not stick to the official list of retail prices for the basic goods.