Sharjah resolves 1,056 consumer complaints in three months

sharjah — The Sharjah economic development department (SEDD) resolved 1,056 complaints from consumers in the first quarter of the year, said a top official of the department.

The consumer protection section of the SEDD intensified its campaigns and resolved these complaints quickly, said Sultan Abdullah bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, chairman of the SEDD, adding that the move is in accordance with the department’s strategy that seeks to improve performance, monitor markets and deal with complaints as soon as possible.

He said the department has intensified its inspection campaigns on markets to ensure the quality of products and enhance consumer confidence.

He also stressed on the department’s concerns on enhancing the transparency in the relationship between sellers and consumers. “This can be attained only through the provision of an ideal environment with a high culture of awareness and neutrality in buying and selling procedures in the retail sector that must follow the highest standards of quality and practice. It should be noted that the retail sector is a key driver in the development of the local economy,” he commented.

He pointed out that the SEDD carried out 41,523 campaigns and dealt with 1,056 complaints. This included 837 complaints resolved by the consumer protection section, which were related to the poor quality of services, cheating and fake products. Among the rest, 122 complaints were against agent services and 98 complaints were related to commercial fraud.

He added that 24 per cent of total complaints were against cars and spare parts sector, followed by 13 per cent against electronics companies and 15 per cent against mobile phone outlets. Complaints related to electrical appliances and building materials sector reached 13 per cent while the rest of the complaints were distributed among a number of other sectors.

Salim Al Suwaidi, deputy director of commercial control and protection department, emphasised on the SEDD’s commitment to apply the highest standards of consumer service that go in line with consumer protection laws. He added that the department was committed to work with traders and consumers to build a fair relationship between both the parties.

Al Suwaidi pointed out that the department offers many channels to receive complaints, including its call centre (80080000) and the consumer protection website (www.shjconsumer.ae).

Ali Fadil, head of the commercial protection section, said that the department is keen on resolving the complaints as soon as possible. This is achieved through adopting best practices in applying the procedures and the quality systems.

He added the department organises various awareness campaigns in the emirate throughout the year to spread awareness among the consumers and traders.

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com