Jamaica is the first in the region to advance consumer protection and welfare policy significantly

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica is the first country in the region to make significant progress in developing 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 are empowered to defend their rights and welfare.

Speaking 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. 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 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 international cooperation and consumer safety provisions.

“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 developing this Policy,” she added.

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

Meanwhile, Dr. Dunn commended industry experts for participating in “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 center 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 concerning the ease of doing business.