CARICOM Competition Commission message for World Consumer Rights Day 2024, under the theme “Fair and responsible AI for consumers”

As the world celebrates World Consumer Rights Day 2024, we must reflect on the evolving landscape of consumer rights, especially in artificial intelligence (AI). In a world increasingly driven by data and algorithms, ensuring fair and responsible AI for consumers has become a pressing concern.

Within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), the CARICOM Competition Commission (CCC) has consistently championed increased consumer rights in the digital space, with its recent endeavours underscoring the importance of addressing modern challenges while fostering a fair and transparent marketplace.

Given the expanding scope of the digital economy, as consumers, we must educate ourselves on the implications of AI. While AI offers numerous benefits, including enhanced convenience and personalised experiences, it also poses risks, particularly concerning consumer data rights and privacy. By being informed and proactive, we can navigate these complexities and advocate for policies prioritising our interests.

The CCC will soon publish a study on data protection and privacy. The study was commissioned by the CCC, funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat, and executed by London Economics. It delves into the impact of data protection and privacy in regulating competition and consumer protection in the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). By examining the regulatory framework’s adequacy in addressing contemporary concerns, the study lays the groundwork for informed policymaking and future work on how businesses and consumers in the region navigate the digital space.

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