Useful information about prices

One of the most important requirements to ensure a competitive marketplace is information, particularly about prices. Prices perform the important function of sending signals to traders and consumers alike.

This aspect of competition has gained prominence on a European level, especially since such information is indicating that the whole idea of a Single Market is still an elusive dream.

The Consumers' Association has decided to take the initiative by promoting a more transparent pricing system. Some two weeks ago it set up a new section in its Website (www.camalta.org): Price Monitor.

In this section one finds the prices of a large number of products. The list has been compiled mostly from VAT cash register receipts submitted to us by consumers. However, handwritten receipts do not provide much information on the nature of services requested by consumers.

It is our intention to include all products and services as long as a valid receipt with a proper description supports them.

The list gives details of the product, the type of product, the brand name, the weight/volume, the price, the date at which the product was sold, and the outlet.

We believe that this section could be of help to consumers and would promote more competition. The Consumers' Association appeals to consumers to send us more information from different outlets around Malta.

Consumers who are willing to help should send details of products and services, using the six headings listed above, to: The Secretary, Consumers' Association, PO Box 464, Valletta CMR 01, or else, if the receipts are scanned, by e-mail (consumer@nextgen.net.mt) or fax 2122-1210.

We believe that, if properly used, this section would give consumers the opportunity to influence the marketplace. It will also provide critical assistance to the Consumers' Association when Malta inevitably changes over to the euro.