The Alliance For Change (AFC) is calling on state agencies to intensify monitoring of foreign-operated supermarkets and stores, alleging widespread breaches of labour, consumer protection and tax laws.
In a statement yesterday, the party said it had found that many Chinese-operated supermarkets were selling food products that did not carry English labels or expiry or “best by” dates, arguing that the practice could pose a risk to consumers.
The AFC also alleged that many Chinese and Brazilian-owned stores and supermarkets do not issue receipts to customers.
According to the party, the businesses generate significant revenue and the failure to provide receipts raises concerns about possible tax evasion and money laundering, although it provided no evidence to support those claims.
The AFC further alleged that employees at many of the businesses are subjected to poor working conditions. It claimed that some stores do not provide separate washroom facilities for male and female staff or lunchrooms for employees, while workers reportedly receive lunch breaks of 20 minutes or less.
The party also alleged that employees work long hours without overtime pay, that National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions are not being made on their behalf, and that many are paid in cash without receiving payslips.
It said these practices place consumers, workers, the NIS and government revenues at risk.
The AFC called on the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Ministry of Labour, the Guyana Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, the National Insurance Scheme and the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department to undertake a nationwide compliance exercise targeting stores and supermarkets.
It also urged the minister responsible to ensure that such inspections are conducted throughout the year.
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