Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Susan Rodrigues, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting consumers, noting that as Guyana’s economy continues to expand, safeguards must remain in place to ensure fairness and accountability in the marketplace.Speaking on Sunday in observance of World Consumer Rights Day, Rodrigues emphasised that the country’s rapid development must be matched by strong systems that protect citizens from unfair practices.“Today, Guyana proudly joins the rest of the world in observing World Consumer Rights Day,” the minister said, adding that “as our country advances along a rapid economic trajectory, the protection of our consumers remains paramount.”She stressed that economic growth alone is not sufficient if consumers are not adequately protected.“Growth must go hand in hand with fairness, transparency, and accountability,” Rodrigues stated, noting that under the current administration, “consumer education and protection are clear priorities.”The minister highlighted the work of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC), which continues to conduct nationwide programmes aimed at educating citizens about their rights as consumers.According to Rodrigues, the commission carries out sensitisation programmes and school outreach initiatives throughout the year to ensure that Guyanese understand how to seek recourse if their rights are denied.However, she made it clear that education must be supported by enforcement.“But awareness alone is not enough. Enforcement is key,” she said.Rodrigues revealed that in 2025, the CCAC conducted 1,331 inspections across the country to ensure businesses were complying with the Consumer Affairs Act. During that period, 259 compliance certificates were issued to businesses that met the required standards.She also pointed to the mechanisms in place for consumers to seek redress when issues arise.“In 2025 alone, 428 complaints, representing 85% of matters received, were resolved, securing $157 million in redress for consumers,” the minister disclosed.“These are real outcomes that deliver real relief to citizens,” she added.This year’s World Consumer Rights Day is being observed under the theme “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” which Rodrigues said highlights the importance of ensuring safety in both physical and digital marketplaces.She explained that the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) plays a critical role in this effort through inspections, testing and monitoring at the country’s ports of entry.Through these efforts, she said, authorities are working to ensure that unsafe and substandard products do not enter the local market.Closing her message, Rodrigues assured citizens that the government remains committed to safeguarding consumer rights.“Let me assure every Guyanese citizen, you have a government firmly committed to protecting your rights,” she said. “Together, we will continue building a marketplace that is fair, safe, and worthy of your trust.”
