Freely negotiated fees

To: Consumer Association

The Competition Competition has mandated that fees should be freely negotiable. The apply this requirement to doctors and property agents.

The Commission think that this is to the benefit of consumers. It is likely to work the other way. If fees are freely negotiated, and the standard and scope of service is not clearly defined, consumers can be put to a disadvantage. The industry players (i.e. doctors and property agents) are more knowledgeable about the playing field and will be able get away with higher charges, as consumers are not aware about the market.

A better approach is for the Commission to get the industry association to define a few standard services and require the providers to advertise their fees for these services.

I hope that the Consumer Association can look into this matter.