Consumer authority recovers over RO7,800 in vehicle shipping dispute
Muscat – The Directorate General of Consumer Protection in North Batinah has successfully mediated a settlement between a consumer and a shipping and customs clearance company, resulting in the recovery of over RO7,800 for the consumer.
The case involved a complaint filed by a consumer who had contracted the company to purchase and ship a vehicle from the United States to Oman. Despite paying all agreed amounts, the company delayed delivery of the vehicle by a month after it had arrived at Sohar Port.
This delay led to the accumulation of additional customs fees, which the company then demanded from the consumer – despite no such clause being included in their agreement.
Following the complaint, the directorate launched an investigation and initiated administrative procedures. The inquiry confirmed the company's failure to deliver the vehicle on time, in violation of contractual terms. After negotiations, the company agreed to compensate the consumer.
The authority emphasised that such efforts are part of its ongoing commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring providers adhere to contractual obligations. It cited Article 19, Clause 5 of the executive regulations of the Consumer Protection Law (Royal Decree No. 66/2014), which prohibits providers from delaying delivery of goods or completion of services beyond the agreed time.
The Consumer Protection Authority reiterated its call for businesses to comply with the law and uphold their responsibilities, thereby safeguarding the rights of consumers across the sultanate.
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