BY BEN BILUA
GIZO
Consumer Affairs and Price Control Division (CAPCD) is ready to assist customers when it comes to circumstances where shop owners refuse to refund or replace faulty products.
The announcement is indeed welcoming and plays a key role to ensure fair trade practices and consumer protection under the Consumer Protection Act.
Director of CAPCD, Jeffrey Dan Hou’ua, said the Act is an important piece of legislation to administer customers’ grievances.
He stated that customers can present or report their case to CAPCD and inspectors will investigate the report.
Hou’ua however pointed out that it is crucial for customers to present their case with substantial evidence before the CAPCD.
“While the law is in place to protect customers from unfair practices, consumers also have a duty to inspect items before making a purchase.
“Customers must take time to check whether a product is in good condition. However, if the product is faulty or there is a clear breach of their rights, they can contact us for assistance,” he said.
Hou’ua emphasized that proof of breach must be in a form of a receipt, photograph, or written complaint.
He said the Division has already handled a number of cases where customers were either sold faulty items or charged unfair prices, and in many cases, appropriate action was taken.
“We encourage people to come forward and report incidents where they believe their consumer rights have been violated. This is the only way we can hold businesses accountable and promote a fair-trading environment,” Hou’ua added.
The Consumer Protection Act provides a legal framework to ensure customers are treated fairly and that goods sold meet a certain standard. CAPCD also oversees pricing regulations to avoid exploitation.
Hou’ua encourages shop owners to also play their part by being transparent and ethical in their business dealings.
Consumers who need assistance can visit the CAPCD office or contact their hotline for guidance.
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