News Today: Consumer Affairs Authority denies salt price agreement reports to stop misinformation

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has firmly denied recent media reports claiming that an agreement had been reached on a Maximum Retail Price (MRP) for salt during discussions with the Salt Manufacturers’ Association.

In an official statement, the CAA clarified that no such meeting took place between the Authority and the Association. Instead, it explained that the process of determining an MRP belongs exclusively to the Consumer Affairs Council, an independent body separate from the CAA. The Council consults relevant stakeholders, including the Salt Manufacturers’ Association, to gather industry views.

If the Council decides to set an MRP based on these consultations, it will formally notify the CAA. Following notification, the Authority will publish the approved price through an official Government gazette. Until then, any public claims by the Salt Manufacturers’ Association suggesting that a final price agreement exists with the CAA remain false and misleading.

The CAA also raised concerns over several importers and local manufacturers who have introduced salt products into the market without proper labeling. Some of these products fail to display critical consumer information such as the maximum retail price, and the name and address of the manufacturer or importer—both required by law. The Authority stressed that legal action will be taken against businesses violating these labeling standards.

Additionally, retailers were urged not to buy or sell salt products lacking proper labels. The CAA reminded all traders of their responsibility to keep valid invoices showing the supplier’s details and accurate pricing information. “Failure to maintain such documentation may result in legal penalties,” the statement added.

Through this statement, the CAA reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection and transparent market practices, while warning against misinformation that may cause unnecessary public confusion.