Local consumers secured $157 million after complaints made – Rodrigues

Guyana has recorded significant progress in protecting consumer rights, with more than 1,300 inspections conducted and $157 million secured in redress for citizens during 2025.

The achievements were highlighted by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, as the country joined in observing World Consumer Rights Day on Sunday under the theme “Safe Products, Confident Consumers.”

In her message, the minister said while Guyana continues along the rapid economic growth trajectory, protecting consumers remains a priority to ensure development is matched by fairness, transparency, and accountability.

According to Minister Rodrigues, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) carried out 1,331 inspections across the country in 2025 to ensure businesses complied with the Consumer Affairs Acts.

Additionally, a total of 259 compliance certificates were issued to businesses that met the required standards, recognising companies that demonstrated responsible and ethical operations.

Minister Rodrigues also highlighted that the system designed to protect consumers continues to deliver tangible results.

In 2025 alone, 428 complaints were resolved. This represents 85 per cent of the matters received by the commission.

She explained that the commission continues to conduct nationwide sensitisation programmes and school outreach initiatives.

These are to ensure citizens understand their rights and know what steps to take if those rights are denied.

At the same time, the government has strengthened enforcement measures to ensure businesses meet their obligations.

“But awareness alone is not enough. Enforcement is key,” she said.

The minister pointed to the inspections and compliance monitoring carried out to ensure businesses uphold the standards required by law.

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) also plays a critical role in safeguarding consumers through inspections, testing and monitoring at ports of entry to ensure unsafe and substandard products do not reach the local market (Republished from the Department of Public Information)