With the holiday season fast approaching, consumers are eager to stock up on gifts, treats, and other essentials to make the festivities memorable. However, this time of year also sees a troubling increase in unscrupulous practices by some businesses, including the sale of counterfeit, expired, and improperly labelled goods. Such acts not only violate consumer rights, but pose significant health risks to the public, especially to vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has issued a strong condemnation of these practices during his recent weekly press conference, emphasizing the need for stringent penalties against offenders. Citing personal experience with an expired product fraudulently relabelled to appear fresh, he underlined the serious dangers posed by such deception. His call for greater accountability and stronger enforcement of consumer protection regulations deserves widespread support.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has echoed similar concerns, highlighting the alarming increase in non-compliant products in the market. These include expired goods with tampered labels, counterfeit items masquerading as legitimate brands, and products with misleading or incomplete information. Such violations undermine the trust consumers place in businesses and regulatory authorities while exposing consumers to potential harm.
For instance, consuming expired foods and beverages could lead to food poisoning, severe allergic reactions, and even long-term health complications. Counterfeit products such as cosmetics or pharmaceuticals may contain harmful or ineffective ingredients, rendering them useless or dangerous. The risk is further compounded by the festive rush, as shoppers are less likely to scrutinize every label amidst the hustle and bustle.
Dr Jagdeo was candid in his critique of the agencies tasked with monitoring and enforcing these standards, suggesting lapses in oversight, and even potential corruption. Institutions like the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) must rise to the challenge. Their role in ensuring that all goods meet regulatory requirements is crucial in maintaining consumer safety and market integrity.
It is intolerable that individuals and businesses can put profits above the wellbeing of citizens. As Dr. Jagdeo stated, such actions are unconscionable and warrant severe penalties. However, the issue is not just about enforcement, but also about the resources and commitment needed to make these agencies more effective.
While the Government and regulatory bodies must step up their efforts, consumers also have a critical role to play. Vigilance is essential, particularly during the holiday season, when the volume of transactions skyrockets.
Here are some practical steps shoppers can take to protect themselves and their families:
a): Inspect labels carefully: Always check expiry dates, and look for signs of tampering, such as irregular fonts, smudges, or overlapping stickers
b): Buy from trusted sellers: Stick to reputable stores, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true, especially from unknown vendors
c): Report suspicious products: If you come across questionable items, report them to the GA-FDD or other relevant authorities
And d): Educate yourself: Stay informed about common counterfeit practices, and share this knowledge with friends and family.
Retailers also bear moral and legal obligations to ensure the goods on their shelves meet all safety and quality standards. Business associations like the GCCI should continue to advocate for ethical practices within their membership and beyond.
This issue calls for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter laws, better enforcement, and public awareness. Policymakers should consider introducing stiffer penalties for offenders, ranging from hefty fines to licence revocation. At the same time, investments in technology and training can help regulatory agencies become more efficient and transparent.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors is equally important. Joint initiatives to educate consumers and improved supply chain transparency could go a long way in curbing these unethical practices.
The holiday season should be a time of joy, not anxiety over the safety and authenticity of the products being purchased. Consumers must stay vigilant, and demand accountability.
