On the 15th of May, the Regional Authority for Economic Activities (ARAE) carried out an inspection at the Farmers’ Market as part of its consumer protection work, identifying four administrative offences linked to the use of the complaints book system.
The operation, named Operation Real Value, covered several areas of commercial activity and aimed at monitoring practices that could potentially harm consumers. This included checking for price speculation and ensuring that sale prices were clearly and correctly displayed.
During the inspection, ARAE officers also checked product weights and the prices being charged to customers. No irregularities were found in either of these areas.
Inspectors also reviewed other legal requirements, including compliance with metrological controls and the provision of mandatory information to consumers, such as the country of origin of fruit on sale. No infringements were detected in these areas.
The operation involved eight ARAE inspectors, who carried out checks at 30 stalls, stands, and shops within the market.
ARAE said the inspection also served as an opportunity to raise awareness among traders about the importance of complying with current legislation. The authority stressed that, except in cases specifically regulated by law, traders are free to set their own prices, but these must be clearly displayed so that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
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