On the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day (March 15), James Monazar, Minister of Commerce and Industry (MCI), emphasized the importance of ensuring product safety and strengthening consumer confidence in the functioning of the national market.

This day, themed "Safe Products, Confident Consumers" provides a crucial opportunity to raise awareness among citizens and economic operators about their rights and responsibilities.

In a context where Haitian markets sometimes face the circulation of products without proper labeling, without indication of origin, or with unclear expiration dates, the MCI stressed the need to strengthen control mechanisms and promote responsible consumption. "Consumer protection is a major public health and economic development issue."

To this end, the Decree of March 11, 2020, concerning the safety of goods and services, fair business practices, and consumer protection, establishes a legal framework designed to guarantee product safety, transparency of information provided to consumers, and the existence of effective redress mechanisms in the event of disputes. This framework enshrines, in particular, the obligation for suppliers to guarantee the quality and safety of products placed on the market, especially with regard to foodstuffs.

The Ministry continues its efforts to improve market surveillance and strengthen citizen protection. Among the actions undertaken are the swearing-in of new inspectors, the deployment of technical training programs, the modernization of inspection tools through digital solutions, and the establishment of a quality control laboratory.

Furthermore, a recent study conducted by the Directorate of Quality Control and Consumer Protection (DCQPC) in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area highlighted certain shortcomings in the quality of commercially available treated water. Download the report on contaminated drinking water (PDF in French, 28 pages): https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/Etude-sur-la-qualite-des-eaux.pdf . In response to this situation, the Ministry engaged in discussions with the suppliers involved and organized an inter-institutional workshop, which resulted in the adoption of a joint circular establishing strict quality and compliance requirements: https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-47061-haiti-health-drinking-water-distribution-ministry-requirements.html

The Ministry reaffirms that the primary responsibility for product safety and quality rests with suppliers and economic operators. However, the government remains fully committed to implementing an effective regulatory framework to protect consumer rights, combat fraudulent business practices, and promote a more transparent market.

Minister Monazard urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any irregularities or anomalies related to products and services available on the market. Merchants, distributors, and manufacturers are also called upon to strictly comply with applicable laws and regulations.

"Consumer protection is a fundamental pillar of a healthy economy and a fairer society. Together, informed consumers, responsible businesses, and committed public institutions can contribute to building a market based on trust, quality, and transparency," the Ministry emphasizes.

HL/ HaitiLibre