Most consumer complaints against automotive dealers

The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) resolved about 80 per cent of consumer complaints it received in the first half of the current year. The department received 1,662 complaints during the period.
Abdullah bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the SEDD, said complaints against automotive dealers topped the list it received at 33 per cent. He said 11 per cent complaints were against mobile phone dealers; 11 per cent against dealers of construction materials; seven per cent against furniture and curtain dealers; four per cent against fashion and wedding service providers; and four per cent against tourism and shipping service providers.
Al Suwaidi said the department received 327 complaints in May - the highest so far this year. Of these, 71 per cent were complaints filed by consumers; 15 per cent against service agents; and 14 per cent commercial fraud claims.
"The department has set up a complaints and suggestions committee to ensure quick response to customers' needs, analyse the problems they face and come up with solutions," Al Suwaidi said.
The retail sector, he said, is considered to be one of the main elements in developing the local economy and the department "pays great attention on promoting transparency and easing the buying-selling procedures".
Bader Al Salman, acting Deputy Director of Commercial Control and Protection Department, said: "The SEDD's role is not limited to protecting consumers and dealers, but also to inform dealers about the correct procedures to avoid complaints and disputes. The department also carries out inspection campaigns in order to eliminate irregularities." ­ afkarali@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Sharjah

Afkar Ali Ahmed

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com