Jamaica First in Region to Significantly Advance Consumer Protection and Welfare Policy

Jamaica is the first country in the region to make significant progress in the development of a National Consumer Protection and Welfare Policy and Implementation Plan.

Spearheaded by the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC), the Policy seeks to ensure that consumers are protected from unsafe goods and unfair business practices, and that they are empowered to defend their rights and welfare.

Speaking today (September 27) at the opening ceremony for a virtual validation workshop on the draft of the policy, State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, pointed out that the Government “has always been a forerunner in the development and adoption of policies that seek to promote consumer safety and well-being”.

He referenced the fact that Jamaica was also among the first signatories to the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection in 2015 and the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas in 2001, which articulates provision for international cooperation and consumer safety.

“Consumers are the largest economic group and continue to play a vital role in our economy, for which Government must be deliberate in ensuring adequate safeguards and support for their benefit,” Dr. Dunn said.

For her part, Chief Technical Director in the Ministry, Michelle Parkins, said Jamaica continues to lead in many areas of development in CARICOM.

“I am pleased [that]… Jamaica is the first country to be as advanced as we are in the development of this policy,” she added.

Ms. Parkins outlined that the nine-month project, which is being funded by the Foundation for Competitiveness and Growth, began in January this year.

Today’s stakeholder consultation exercise is an important step in the finalisation of the policy.

In the meantime, Dr. Dunn commended industry experts for participating towards “a sound national policy that will enhance Jamaica’s standing as a global business destination”.

“Your deliberations today represent a critical component in the Government’s guideline for the development of national policies, to ensure that people are placed at the centre of decision-making,” he said.

The Policy will also seek to promote environmentally sustainable businesses and consumption patterns. Jamaica is ranked first in the Caribbean and sixth in Latin America, with respect to the ease of doing business.

Source: JIS