The Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) has registered 194 complaints relating to unfair trading practices between January and March this year, an increase from 123 cases recorded in the same period last year.

CFTC spokesperson Innocent Helema told Zodiak Online that alleged excessive pricing accounts for 48 cases seconded by excluding liability with 27 complaints.

Helema said, " An increase in the number of complaints shows that the public trusts the commision."

Helema added that consistent sensitization messages targeting enhancing consumer rights and obligations are also bearing fruits.

Meanwhile, social commentator Isaac Cheke Ziba said the authorities must step up efforts in coming up with price mechanisms for the benefit of both the consumer and trader.

"While the citizens are reporting the unfair trading practices, the liberalized economy Malawi use is punitive to the consumers where their rights continue to be violated," said Ziba.

However, Ziba thinks that the creation of a board specifically for pricing is crucial in addressing issues of excessive pricing of goods by traders.

CFTC was established under section 4 of the Competition and Fair Trading Act to regulate, monitor, control, and prevent acts that would adversely affect competition and fair trading in Malawi.