Traders to be trained on ethical business practices

by Carol Aloysius

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) will launch islandwide awareness programs next month to educate traders on ethical practices due to the increasing number of complaints against errant traders. Director General CAA, J.M.U Douglas told the Sunday Observer that from next month till January end next year, traders from various organisations would be invited for discussions and public fora on how they should carry out business on the basis of accountability to their customers.

He said various Non Government trade organisations and the Chambers of Commerce would be invited to participate in the awareness-raising program. "Traders will be educated on Consumer Rights and Protection, the Consumer Act and laws, penalties for violating it and their responsibilities in dealing honestly with customers when selling products. The main focus will be on good business practices", he said.

Investigative officers of the CAA would also visit wayside stalls, boutiques and retail outlets islandwide to explain to vendors the importance of adhering to these ethical practices. "We are also conducting raids on any outlet selling sub-standard consumer products. If any member of the public has any information on such an outlet, they should contact the nearest police station or contact us directly", he said.