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Fines, jail time possible for price-gouging in Saskatchewan during coronavirus pandemic

Saskatchewan Justice Minister Don Morgan said it is unacceptable for companies to price-gouge during this “unprecedented time.”. Mark Taylor / The Canadian Press

Business owners could face fines or jail time if they price-gouge during the novel coronavirus pandemic, Saskatchewan’s justice minister warned.

Don Morgan said it is unacceptable for companies to price-gouge during this “unprecedented time.”

“Businesses or individuals in Saskatchewan found price-gouging will face stiff penalties and possibly jail time,” Morgan said in a release Monday.

“It is essential that we look out for each other, and this government will protect residents of Saskatchewan from exploitation when they are trying to protect their families.”

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The government said it does not stop businesses from reasonably raising prices to cover higher costs of acquiring inventory.

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Anyone who believes price-gouging is occurring should file a complaint with Saskatchewan’s Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority.

People are also being asked to keep all receipts, contracts and advertisements that could demonstrate price-gouging is occurring or occurred during the period of a crisis or emergency.

Click to play video: 'Coronavirus outbreak: Ontario premier announces new penalties for price gouging'
Coronavirus outbreak: Ontario premier announces new penalties for price gouging
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