Peshawar Court Fines Khaadi Rs 50,030 for Shopping Bag Fee

Peshawar's Consumer Protection Court imposed a Rs 50,030 fine against Khaadi Pakistan on September 16 for collecting fees on branded shopping bags. The landmark ruling came after petitioner Shafqat Aamir filed a complaint alleging the clothing retailer charged her Rs 30 for a shopping bag during a Rs 7,000 purchase on December 20, 2025. Judge Nasrullah Khan Gandapur found that Khaadi violated consumer protection law by collecting fees for bags bearing the company's promotional logo. The court determined the practice constituted unfair trade conduct under section 2(O)(xii)(xiii) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1997. The judgment ordered Khaadi to refund the Rs 30 bag fee to Aamir, pay Rs 25,000 as consumer compensation, and deposit another Rs 25,000 with the national treasury. The court's decision established that retailers cannot charge customers for shopping bags simultaneously used for brand promotion. Khaadi's bag bore the company logo, making it a dual-purpose marketing tool. The respondent had initially denied obligation to provide free bags, arguing they were optional purchases rather than mandatory charges. However, evidence showed the company issued receipts documenting the separate Rs 30 charge. Khaadi is internationally recognized as a leading Pakistani fashion and lifestyle brand. The company operates retail outlets nationwide and maintains a substantial customer base across urban centers. The court acknowledged Khaadi's market position while holding the organization accountable to consumer protection standards that apply uniformly regardless of brand size or market share. The ruling carries implications for Pakistan's retail sector. Numerous brands across fashion, grocery and e-commerce platforms have adopted shopping bag fees. This judgment establishes legal precedent that such charges may violate consumer law when bags serve promotional purposes simultaneously. Retailers now face potential litigation if customers challenge similar practices.