Consumer Policy for Trinidad and Tobago
CONTENTS
Foreword
Introduction - the Consumer and the Economy
Aims of the Policy
Objectives of Policy
Principles and Priorities of Consumer Policy:
- Protection of Consumer Health and Safety
- Promotion and Protection of Consumer Economic Interests
- Advice, Help and Redress
- Fair Distribution of Essential Goods and Services
- Consumer Education
- Consumer Information
- Consumer Consultation and Representation
- Decentralization of Consumer Services
- Harmonization and Co-ordination Among all Consumer Protection Agencies
- Regional and International Cooperation
- Research on Consumer Matters
- The Environment
- Public Utilities
- Women as Consumers
- Tobacco and Drugs
- Pharmaceuticals
- School Books
Action Plan:
- Introduction
- Legislation
- Administrative
- General
The development of a Consumer Policy for Trinidad and Tobago has been one of the goals of my Ministry for some time now.
The finalization of this document is evidence of the importance that the Ministry, and by extension, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, has placed on the education and protection of all consumers.
The new global trading environment, delivering literally a plethora of goods and services, reinforces the need for consumers to be ever so vigilant and knowledgeable on consumer issues, so as to make wise, informed choices.
It is my hope that the development of this Consumer Policy will open up the channels for consultation and representation on various consumer issues, encourage harmonization, co-ordination and collaboration among all consumer issues, encourage harmonization, coordination and collaboration among all consumer protection agencies with a view to providing an integrated consumer service, and promote measures to protect the interest of consumers.
Let me again congratulate the staff of the Ministry and all those persons organizations, regional and international, who had an input in the formulation of this Consumer Policy, and I hope that it will redound to the benefit of all consumers for whom it is intended.
Mervyn Assam
Minister of Ministry of Trade and Industry and Consumer Affairs
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