The minority opposition Alliance For Change (AFC) Tuesday called for the closer monitoring of foreign operated stores and supermarkets across Guyana claiming that many of them are not adhering to Guyana’s laws and regulations.
In a statement, the AFC said it found that many Chinese supermarkets are selling food products that carry no English description as is required and no expiry or ‘best by’ date,’ adding ‘the health of our people is being put at risk’.
The party said that many Chinese and Brazilian stores and supermarkets fail to issue receipts to customers, adding ‘these are not ‘mom and pop’ businesses.
‘These businesses gross millions and could be fueling massive tax evasion and even money laundering,’ the AFC said, adding that it also found that ‘in most of these foreign operated stores and supermarkets, staff are subject to inhumane treatment.
‘Washrooms are not separated for males and females and there is no lunchroom for staff to use. Staff also report that their lunch period is 20 minutes or less at some stores. The working hours are long with no overtime and NIS contributions are not paid. Most staff are paid in cash, and no pay slips are issued. ‘
The AFC said that these practices put the consuming public, workers, the National Insurance Scheme and state coffers at risk.
‘The Alliance For Change (AFC) calls on the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Ministry of Labour, the Guyana Competition and Consumers Affairs, NIS, Food and Drug Administration to carry out a national campaign to bring all stores and supermarkets into compliance. The Responsible Minister of Government must ensure these exercises are carried out year-round,’ the party said.