The C.A.R.E Drive, which was launched in February 2023 by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Fair Competition (DTIFC), is centred around two (2) work activities:
- Part IV and V Checks, which focus on assessing how compliant providers are with their duties to consumers, as per Parts IV & V of the TCI Consumer Protection Ordinance (CPO)
- Section 33 Check, which focuses on the monitoring of selected breadbasket items to dissuade price gouging, which is prohibited in Section 33 of the CPO.
Celebrating World Consumer Rights Day 2023 presented an opportunity to encourage providers to protect and respect consumers’ rights. In the Turks and Caicos Islands, every consumer that purchases a good or service has the right to receive information on the price, origin, and business policies concerning refunds, returns and exchanges, among other pertinent information.
Individuals who stopped by the Information Desk were informed about the role that the DTIFC plays to protect them as consumers. Providers were also educated about the different work activities and publications that emanate from the C.A.R.E. Drive, including the monthly report on the prices of breadbasket items across the TCI.
A number of educational brochures were also distributed, containing information about the duties of providers to consumers, steps to file a complaint in the event of violation of consumer rights during the acquisition of a good or service, as well as best practices for providers to avoid penalties under the CPO. Consumer Officers emphasized the $5,000 fine, which is applicable to providers who engage in price gouging in the TCI.
For more information, visit the DTIFC’s website at www.gov.tc/trade or contact us by telephone on (649) 338-3703.
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