Complaints Surge Against Notorious Electronics Retailer

Shopping for a laptop or seeking a mobile phone repair should deliver solutions, not spark frustration. Yet, a worrying trend has emerged, with the Consumer Council of Fiji recording a surge of complaints against multiple electronics traders run by one family. Computer Hubb, Vision Cyber Tech, and Quantum Electronics, are operating as second-hand electronics traders who buy second hand laptops and refurbish them for sale. They also offer repair services for such electronics.

While the Council has raised alerts about these businesses in the past, their names have re emerged. Since 2022 till date, the Council has registered 122 complaints against the said traders, representing a collective monetary value of about $69,000. What should have been straightforward purchases or repairs have instead left many consumers feeling shortchanged and disappointed.

Consumers report purchasing electronics that malfunction shortly after acquisition, facing prolonged delays or outright refusals when seeking refunds, and encountering substandard repair services. In some cases, consumers received entirely different products than what they ordered, while others found their devices returned from repairs with new defects.

“These are not isolated incidents but a troubling trend of intended unethical practices,” said Consumer Council CEO Seema Shandil. “When consumers spend their hard-earned money, they have every right to expect functional products, timely resolutions, and basic respect—not broken promises and ignored complaints.”

The Council has intensified its scrutiny of these traders and is actively assisting affected consumers in pursuing redress. “We have named and shamed these businesses before, as a form of accountability, and even made referrals to other enforcement bodies. In some instances, they have even been taken to court. However, the fact that they continue to garner complaints suggests they simply do not care about their obligations to consumers or compliance to the law,” added Ms Shandil.

Businesses are reminded that compliance with fair trading practices is both a legal requirement and an ethical obligation. Consumers are urged to exercise caution when dealing with electronics traders, thoroughly inspect purchases before accepting them, and insist on their rights if services fall short.

“We encourage consumers to speak up,” Ms. Shandil emphasized. Those encountering issues with electronics purchases or repairs should contact the Council via the National Consumer Helpline (155) or email complaints@consumersfiji.org for assistance.

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