Analysis of the Application of the Principles of Fairness and Honesty in Sharia Business Practices in the Traditional Market of Metro City, Lampung

Abstract

This study examines the application of fairness (al-'adl) and honesty (ash-shidq) principles in sharia business practices within the traditional market of Metro City, Lampung. Despite the growing development of Islamic economics in Indonesia, traditional markets—as vital centers of people's economic activity—still face challenges in implementing ethical business values. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, utilizing in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation at Pasar Kopindo, Metro City. The findings reveal a dichotomous pattern in the application of honesty: while some traders demonstrate ethical awareness in measurement accuracy and product transparency, others engage in information asymmetry practices, including concealing product defects (tadlis fi al-kayfiyyah), particularly for perishable goods. Regarding fairness, hidden price discrimination between new and loyal customers persists as a sociologically accepted practice. Furthermore, structural inequality is evident in labor relations (ijarah), including unilateral wage delays and reductions. The study concludes that the implementation of Islamic business ethics in traditional markets remains in a transitional phase, characterized by gaps between normative understanding and empirical practice. These findings contribute to the development of sharia-compliant business models in traditional market ecosystems and offer practical implications for market governance and consumer protection.