Muscat: A commercial entity within the Muscat Governorate has been subject to closure due to its failure to uphold its contractual commitments and deliver services by the stipulated deadlines.
The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has recently initiated action against a commercial establishment engaged in the carpentry, blacksmithing, and aluminum sectors within Muscat Governorate. This action was taken by the Complaints Department at the CPA's headquarters following the establishment's non-compliance with transparency, credibility, and consumer rights regulations in its service provision. Notably, the establishment failed to meet its contractual obligations and did not provide the agreed-upon services within the designated timeframe.
The matter came to light when the Complaints Department received numerous complaints from consumers who had engaged the workshop for the manufacturing and installation of aluminum doors and windows for their residences. The workshop did not fulfill its promise to complete the services within the contracted period, continuously extending the completion date of the project. Such behavior is in direct contradiction to Article 23 of the Consumer Protection Law, which mandates that service providers must deliver services to consumers in a manner that is proper and within a reasonable timeframe that aligns with the nature of the service. In instances of non-compliance, the provider is obligated to refund the service value, offer compensation for the impact of the breach, or rectify the service as per regulatory standards.
In coordination with the Public Prosecution, the Complaints Department proceeded with legal actions, leading to a judicial decision to impose a temporary closure of the establishment until the lawsuit is settled and all necessary legal procedures are completed.
The Consumer Protection Authority has underscored the critical need for commercial entities to maintain transparency and credibility in their interactions with consumers. Adhering to these principles not only safeguards consumer rights but also helps establishments avoid legal repercussions and mitigate the potential consequences associated with violations.