The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) conducted 108 special raids islandwide on August 18 and 19 targeting imported cosmetics and footwear, with 84 businesses found unable to produce proper receipts, bills or invoices to establish the source of the goods.

The raids focused on imported skin-lightening products, face and body cosmetics, perfumes, hair-care products, sports shoes and other imported footwear.According to the CAA, officers found several businesses where no bills or invoices were available, suppliers could not be identified and the manner in which the goods had entered the shops could not be established.

Electronic goods valued at around Rs. 1.5 million were seized during the raids, while legal action has been initiated against the relevant traders. Officers have also been instructed to continue investigations into businesses where the source of imported goods cannot be verified.Meanwhile, the CAA said around 785 raids had been conducted this year in relation to creams and lotions, with cases filed against the relevant traders.

Under Order No. 83 issued by the CAA, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, warehouse operators and traders who sell, possess or control goods are required to maintain written or printed bills or invoices establishing how the goods were obtained.

Such documents must contain details including the supplier’s name and address, date of purchase, purchase price, type and quantity of goods and, where applicable, the batch number. These records enable authorities to trace the supply chain of products.

The CAA said the requirement goes beyond simply keeping a bill, as identifying the supplier, importer and other responsible parties is essential for market regulation and consumer protection.

It said traceability is particularly important when quality or safety concerns arise in products such as cosmetics, as authorities must be able to identify and take action against the relevant supplier or importer.

The Authority also stressed that such raids are intended to protect businesses operating legally and complying with regulatory requirements. Lawful importers bear costs related to duties, taxes, fees, documentation and other regulatory obligations.

However, goods entering the market through informal supply channels can make it difficult to verify their quality, safety, standards, manufacturer or importer. The sale of potentially substandard products at lower prices could harm consumers while placing businesses that comply with the law at a disadvantage.

The CAA said the purpose of the special raids is therefore not merely to increase the number of cases filed, but to ensure a fair trading environment, protect consumers and promote fair competition.

The Authority said it will continue conducting special raids and market investigations targeting imported cosmetics, footwear and other selected products where similar concerns arise.