Ministry of Trade Warns: Inspections Begin Against Excessive Water Prices

The Ministry of Trade has taken action following allegations of excessive price increases in water and other beverages after the update of the deposit participation fee for plastic, glass, and metal packaging. The Ministry warned market and industry representatives against unfair price increases and announced the start of inspections. According to the Ministry's statement, price increases exceeding cost increases will be considered unfair pricing. [TABLE_1] The Ministry continues its inspections on packaged water and other relevant beverage products, covering manufacturers, suppliers, and retail sales points.The Ministry of Trade announced that it will impose administrative penalties on price increases that harm consumers.The Ministry will continue to take all necessary administrative and legal measures to protect consumers' rights, market order, and fair competition conditions in line with environmental policies.