The Commerce Commission has started an investigation into restrictive trade practices followed by some businesses in Fiji.

Commission Chairman Dr Mahendra Reddy said they have received several complaints from the members of the public adding that they received a complaint from a beverage company who are alleging that a leading supermarket in Fiji has refused to buy and sell their drinks because they have an exclusive contract with certain suppliers.

Dr Reddy said they want to ensure that there are no exclusive arrangements between the suppliers.

He adds they do not want to impose fines however if businesses continuously engage in restrictive trade practices, they may recommend heavy fines and prison terms.