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National Consumer Policy for Trinidad and Tobago

This comprehensive policy aims to promote and protect the interests of consumers through strengthened regulatory and institutional frameworks.

Key Objectives

• Improving Consumer Protection Legislation: Drafting new legislation to harmonize and modernize consumer protection laws.
• Strengthening Institutional Frameworks: Enhancing the capacity of institutions such as:
  • Consumer Affairs Division
  • Telecommunication Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT)
  • Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS)
  • Chemistry, Food and Drug Division (CFDD)
  • Regulated Industries Commission (RIC)
• Consumer Awareness and Education: Implementing media campaigns, seminars, workshops, and publications to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities.
• Institutional Coordination: Improving coordination among institutions with roles in consumer protection and empowerment.

Implementation Plan

The policy outlines a comprehensive implementation plan:

1. Draft new legislation
2. Develop codes of practice for standards
3. Recruit technical staff members
4. Provide necessary technology, equipment, and space to the Consumer Affairs Division

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

A monitoring and evaluation program will be implemented, utilizing indicators such as complaint numbers and resolution rates to assess policy effectiveness.

• The policy will be evaluated over five years.
• Regular reviews and recommendations for changes will be made.

Conclusion

The National Consumer Policy aims to enhance consumer wellbeing through empowered consumers and responsible suppliers in the marketplace. By strengthening regulatory and institutional frameworks, promoting awareness, and improving coordination among institutions, Trinidad and Tobago can promote a more confident and protected consumer base.