In view of the current water supply disruption, the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS), through its Consumer Affairs Division, continues to conduct inspection and monitoring activities at retail premises, particularly in relation to the sale of bottled water.
These inspections are being carried out to monitor prices and to ensure that businesses act responsibly and do not take advantage of the situation by imposing excessive or unreasonable price increases on goods and services, especially essential items that have experienced increased consumer demand. During the inspections, businesses were also advised to display prices clearly, accurately, and not misleading to promote price transparency and to assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions.
DEPS reminds all businesses not to exploit the temporary disruption in the water supply. Unreasonable price hikes that burden consumers are viewed seriously and may constitute an offence under existing consumer protection legislation.
Members of the public who encounter cases of excessive or unreasonable price increases are encouraged to report the matter to the Department of Consumer Affairs via Talian
Darussalam 123 or by email at consumercomplaint@jpes.gov.bn. Reports should be accompanied by supporting documents such as receipts, photographs of price displays, or other relevant information, to facilitate necessary assessment or enforcement action.
DEPS will continue to closely monitor the situation and take the necessary enforcement actions to safeguard consumer interests and to promote fair and ethical business practices.
Prepared by:
Department of Economic Planning and Statistics
Ministry of Finance and Economy
Email: dca@jpes.gov.bn
Reference : (02)JPES/CAD/AKTA/Pt.13
Date: 13 Syaaban 1447 / 1 February 2026
