The rampant exploitation of consumers in Pakistan has reached a breaking point, particularly when it comes to the quality and pricing of merchandise. The market is flooded with goods, most of which are imported from China, bearing no recognizable branding or standardization. The result is chaos—a landscape where no two products match in quality, and every vendor sets their own arbitrary prices. This is not just an inconvenience; it is an outright assault on the rights of consumers who are left entirely at the mercy of unscrupulous sellers.
In a functional marketplace, competition and regulatory oversight ensure fairness. However, in Pakistan, the absence of these essential mechanisms has created a breeding ground for exploitation. Vendors use the lack of standardized branding as an excuse to charge whatever they please, often pricing low-quality goods at exorbitant rates. Consumers, with no point of reference or alternative options, are forced to accept these unfair terms. This unchecked profiteering is nothing short of economic bullying, and it must be addressed immediately. 
The problem is compounded by the complete lack of quality checks on imported goods. Products flooding into the market often fail to meet even the most basic standards of safety and reliability. Electrical appliances, for instance, are notorious for their poor quality. They frequently malfunction, posing serious risks to users, yet they are sold at prices that suggest premium quality. There is no oversight, no accountability, and no recourse for consumers who find themselves saddled with defective or dangerous products. Where are the regulatory bodies? Why are these substandard goods allowed to enter the market in the first place?
Moreover, administrative negligence has turned the consumer market into a lawless jungle. Sellers operate with impunity, knowing full well that there is no authority to question their practices. Price tags are decided on a whim, often bearing no relation to the actual value or cost of the product. Bargaining, once a cultural norm, has now become a necessity for survival, as consumers are forced to haggle just to avoid being blatantly overcharged. This is not how a fair marketplace functions. This is exploitation, plain and simple.
The lack of competition exacerbates the issue. Many vendors monopolize specific products within their localities, leaving consumers with no choice but to pay whatever price is demanded. This is particularly evident in rural areas, where access to goods is already limited. Residents of these regions are often forced to pay significantly higher prices than their urban counterparts for the same items. This regional disparity is not just unfair; it is discriminatory. It deepens the economic divide and further marginalizes vulnerable communities.
The CRA cannot and will not remain quite while these injustices persist. We demand immediate and decisive action to address this crisis. First and foremost, there must be strict regulation of imported goods. Every product entering the market should be subject to rigorous quality checks to ensure it meets safety and performance standards. Substandard goods should be rejected outright, and vendors who attempt to sell them should face severe penalties.
Secondly, there must be a standardized pricing mechanism for all consumables. The government must establish clear guidelines on pricing, taking into account factors such as production costs, import duties, and reasonable profit margins. Vendors who violate these guidelines should be held accountable through fines, license revocations, or even criminal charges. Price lists must be publicly displayed and regularly updated to ensure transparency.
Thirdly, we call for the empowerment of consumers through education and advocacy. Consumers must be made aware of their rights and given the tools to demand fair treatment. This includes access to complaint mechanisms that are efficient, accessible, and responsive. The CRA is committed to supporting consumers in this fight, but the government and civil society must also play their part.
Finally, there must be a crackdown on monopolistic practices. The government must actively promote competition by supporting small businesses and encouraging the entry of new players into the market. This will not only drive down prices but also improve the quality of goods and services available to consumers.
Let us be clear: this is not just an economic issue; it is a matter of justice. When vendors exploit consumers, they are not merely taking money; they are stealing dignity, security, and trust. They are perpetuating a cycle of inequality and exploitation that keeps the most vulnerable members of society trapped in poverty. This is unacceptable, and it must stop.
The CRA is unwavering in its commitment to holding businesses and policymakers accountable. We will continue to expose exploitative practices, advocate for stronger regulations, and empower consumers to stand up for their rights. But we cannot do this alone. We call on all stakeholders—government officials, business leaders, and ordinary citizens—to join us in this fight. Together, we can create a marketplace that is fair, transparent, and just. The time for complacency is over. The time for action is now.
The writer is: President Consumser Rights Advocacy, can be reached at [email protected]
