The Consumer and Competition Division within the Competitiveness and Communications Ministry, yesterday appealed to all consumers to exercise caution when making purchases, especially during the Trade Fair period.

“The numerous special offers advertised during the Trade Fair may at times encourage reckless shopping and thus a waste of the consumer’s money,” the Division said.

“Consumers should therefore be careful and ensure that the products purchased are of good quality and value for money. Consumers should also ask traders about the commercial guarantee the product carries and the terms of sale applicable,” it added.

The Division warned customers that if a deposit is paid on the product purchased, they should make sure that they are given a date of delivery in writing.

“Unless reasonably justified, once a deposit is paid, the trader is bound to deliver the object as agreed. If this does not happen, consumers are entitled to cancel the order and request a full refund of the deposit paid,” said the Division.