Tourism, Economic Affairs Transport and Telecommunications (TEATT) Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten
PHILIPSBURG--The Inspection Department of Economic and Transport Affairs (IETA) has issued more than Cg. 7,000 in fines to supermarkets, retail establishments, petrol stations and related businesses following intensified inspections aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring compliance with regulations, Tourism, Economic Affairs Transport and Telecommunications (TEATT) Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten announced on Wednesday.
Heyliger-Marten said during the live Council of Ministers press briefing that IETA has significantly increased inspections over the past several months across multiple sectors as part of efforts to promote fair competition, protect consumers and ensure businesses comply with applicable laws and regulations.
The inspections focused on maximum price controls, price display requirements, business and operational licences, permit conditions and fuel pump calibration standards.
According to the minister, fines totalling Cg. 5,125 have been issued to supermarkets and retail establishments for violations involving maximum price regulations, failure to display prices and licensing non-compliance.
In addition, Cg. 2,350 in fines has been imposed on petrol stations and related businesses following inspections, while several cases remain under review. One area that received particular attention was fuel pump calibration. Heyliger-Marten said inspectors found that while most fuel pumps were operating within acceptable standards, several were outside the legally permitted tolerance levels. Those pumps were immediately removed from service until corrective measures were taken and compliance was verified. "This demonstrates that our inspection framework is working. When issues are identified, corrective action is taken," the minister said.
Heyliger-Marten said the inspections are not intended to create obstacles for businesses but rather to ensure a fair and transparent marketplace.
She said the objective is to create a level playing field for businesses, protect consumers and support companies operating responsibly and in compliance with regulations.
"These inspections are not intended to hinder businesses. Their purpose is to ensure a level playing field, protect consumers, and support businesses that are operating responsibly," she said.
The minister said IETA will continue conducting both routine and unannounced inspections throughout 2026 as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen consumer protection and regulatory compliance across the country.
