Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the scope of the Price Control Act?

The Price Control Act regulates the prices of items specified in the law to safeguard their accessibility for consumers. The list of items included in the Act can be accessed here.

The Act also cover price display and sales regulations. More information on price display and sales regulation can be accessed here.

2. How do businesses comply to the Price Control Act?

Businesses are responsible for ensuring that price controlled goods are not sold above the prescribed maximum prices; that prices are clearly and accurately displayed to avoid misleading consumers; and that cheap sale activities are conducted ethically.

To ensure compliance with the maximum prices, businesses are advised to stay updated on the latest price lists, as the prices of cooking oil and formulated powdered milk, in particular, may change from time to time. The latest maximum prices are available here and through the PenggunaBijak mobile application.

3. What is a prescribed maximum price?

A prescribed maximum price is a price ceiling set by the government under the Price Control Act. The maximum price set is a ceiling price, and not a suggested retail price. Retailers are encouraged to offer competitive and lower prices, not exceeding the prescribed ceiling price. This approach ensures affordability while maintaining a fair and dynamic marketplace.

4. Why are there only limited items covered in this Act?

Not all goods sold in Brunei Darussalam are regulated under the Price Control Act. Price intervention through the Price Control Act is applied only to essential goods, with public policy justification. This approach allows the prices of other goods to be determined by the free market, based on the fundamental economic forces of demand and supply, thereby supporting a healthy and competitive business environment.

5. How do I lodge a complaint if I find a business selling price controlled goods above the prescribed maximum price?

You may lodge a formal complaint through the complaint form.

6. Can the public lodge a complaint about price increase of goods in the market?

Goods that are not listed in the Price Control Act are determined by the free market, based on the fundamental economic forces of demand and supply, and therefore fall outside the scope of the Department. Consumers are encouraged to exercise their right to make price comparison in order to get the best value for money.

7. What action can be taken against businesses that violate the Price Control Act?

Action can be taken accordingly as follow:

a)  Compound not exceeding B$1,000

b)  Penalty of B$5,000 and imprisonment for 2 years

c)  Penalty of B$20,000 and imprisonment for 5 years for subsequent offence

8. As a business owner, how can I apply for maximum price setting and notify for cheap sale price activities?

You may submit applications for maximum price setting of price controlled goods via this application form to kawalanharga@jpes.gov.bn.

For notification of cheap sale price activities, you may submit the Notification Form  English & Malay to sales@jpes.gov.bn.

Alternatively, businesses may submit maximum price applications and cheap sale price notifications to Level 4, Tower Block, Ministry of Finance and Economy Building.

9. Why there are differences in pricing for identical items in different shops?

Prices may vary from shop to shop due to differences in cost structures and business strategies. Some retailers may be able to offer more competitive prices due to cost advantage through bulk purchase, direct order, source of import, lower overhead expenses, reduced logistics costs (own transportation), lower rental and labour costs.

It is important not to assume that businesses incur the same costs or should sell at the same prices. This is a common misconception frequently observed among the public.

Hence, consumers are advised to practice price comparison and be aware that choices are available across retail stores to get the best deal. The 1-2-Compare feature in PenggunaBijak mobile application is an initiative to promote such practice.

10. How frequently do price inspectors carry out inspections?

Inspections of business premises, including supermarkets and grocery stores, are conducted daily across all four districts throughout the country. Inspections may also be carried out randomly and in response to consumer complaints.

During inspections, price inspectors ensure that price-controlled goods are not sold above their prescribed maximum prices; cheap sale activities are conducted ethically; and prices are clearly and accurately displayed.