A Newfoundland and Labrador law intended to crack down on illegal sales at flea markets will only work with enforcement, a business advocate says.

Bradley George, executive director of the provincial branch of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, welcomes new rules intended to put an end to the underground market.

Bradley George said a new law meant to crack down on the sale of stolen goods will work if there is sufficient policing.
(CBC)

However, George says experience from other provinces has shown that similar laws work only if the police enforce them.

"What we've heard in Nova Scotia is that there were problems with enforcement, and the police in Nova Scotia were unable to enforce the legislation," George said.

"It was simply a matter of resources, so we just hope that the enforcement is not a problem here."

The Flea Markets Regulation Act went through third reading in the house of assembly last week. It has yet to be proclaimed into law.

The act would make it illegal to sell a variety of items at flea markets, particularly vitamins and supplements and personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, razor blades and cosmetics.

It also sets restrictions on the sale of goods such as clothing, books, music and DVDs. Vendors of such items will be required to show proof they acquired the goods legally.

Justice Minister Tom Marshall said last week that about $25 million worth of goods are stolen from Newfoundland and Labrador retailers each year.

Exemptions are provided for home-based garage sales and for charities that hold fundraising flea markets.

Meanwhile, George said the rules will help curb shoplifting, although he believes thieves will now find ways to send more stolen merchandise out of the province.