World Consumer Rights Day highlighted by local departments

Did you know March 15 was  World Consumer Rights Day?

The Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina, reminded regulators with consumer protection mandates to continue their efforts to put a spotlight on consumer rights. The day saw the National Consumer Commission (NCC) in partnership with the Free State Department of Economic Small Business Development and the Department of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, just to name a few, hosting a webinar to commemorate this day. This year’s theme is ‘Protecting Consumers during Covid-19’.

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In her speech Gina said the purpose of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA No 68 of 2008) is to promote and advance the social and economic welfare of consumers in South Africa. “We all know that South African consumers are still grappling with the effects of Covid-19. I urge the NCC and other regulators in the consumer protection space to leave no stone unturned when dealing with unscrupulous suppliers that are exploiting consumers. Government is also aware that some scammers are always trying to outsmart us. Our commitment to consumer protection must keep up with the pace of these predators. Consumer protection depends entirely on these bodies; it is therefore imperative to remember your role and mandates,” said Gina.

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World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually to highlight fundamental consumer rights. On this day, consumer protection regulators raise awareness about consumer rights while suppliers are also reminded to adhere to the prescripts of the law. Representatives of the Acting National Consumer Commissioner reassured South Africans they would not rest until South Africans know their consumer rights.