Traders who have exploited consumers have been warned to refrain from engaging in price gouging and other unfair trade practices.

This warning is reiterated by Trade and Tourism Minister Faiyaz Koya, who says these practices will not be tolerated.

His warning comes after consumers lodged complaints that some traders have increased the prices of goods and services in a potentially unethical manner.

Koya says his ministry is working with Fiji Commerce Commission and is undertaking inspections to ensure that the traders involved are punished by spot fines and/or prosecutions.

He adds this is also illegal and will not go unpunished.