CONSUMER PROTECTION

THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (PART 1)

We will now examine some introductory aspects of a law which impacts on the lives of each and every person on a daily (if not more) basis – CONSUMING FROM THE MARKETPLACE (by means of PRODUCTS and/or SERVICES)

What is this Act all about?

• ·         It promotes a fair, accessible and sustainable marketplace for consumer products and services
• ·         It establishes national norms and standards to ensure consumer protection
• ·        It makes provision for improved standards of consumer information, to prohibit certain unfair marketing  and business practices
• ·         It promotes responsible consumer behaviour
• ·        It promotes a consistent legislative and enforcement framework, related to consumer transactions and  agreements
• ·       It establishes the National Consumer Commission and replaces old Acts (including the Consumer Affairs (Unfair Business Practices) Act of 1988; Trade Practices Act of 1976; Sales and Service Matters Act of 1964; Price Control Act of 1964; and Merchandise Marks Act of 1941 (specifically Sections 2-13, and 16-17)