The Kosovo Metrology Agency (KMA), in cooperation with the Central Inspectorate of Market Supervision (CIMS), today launched the action of supervising the weight of bread and verifying the validity period of scales used in bakeries operating in the Republic of Kosovo.
The inspections have started in the Prishtina region, while in the coming days the action will continue in other municipalities of the country.
This action stems after continuous complaints from consumers, who have raised doubts regarding the discrepancy between the weight of bread declared by sellers and the real weight of the purchased product.
As the institution responsible for verifying measuring instruments, the KMA officials have inspected the validity period and regularity of the scales used by bakers. In addition to inspecting the weight of bread, during the action it was also verified whether economic operators possess the consent for the minimum technical conditions.
According to Law No. 06/L-034 on Consumer Protection, the discrepancy between the advertised product size and the actual product size sold is considered consumer fraud. For this violation, businesses can be fined from EUR 1,000 to EUR 10,000.
Meanwhile, for the use of improper scales or other measuring devices, based on the applicable legislation on metrology, a legal entity can be fined from EUR 500 to EUR 1,500.
KMA and CIMS call on all bakers in the Republic of Kosovo to verify the validity period of scales in a timely manner, ensure accurate measurement of products and respect all legal requirements for consumer protection.
Moreover, businesses that lack the consent for the minimum technical conditions are invited to apply as soon as possible to the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship, Trade and Innovation, in order to be equipped with the relevant documentation.
KMA and CIMS will continue with supervision and inspection activities throughout the territory of the Republic of Kosovo to guarantee the accuracy of measurements, adherance to the legislation and the protection of consumer rights.
