Guyana recorded notable gains in consumer protection during 2025, with more than $157 million secured in redress for citizens and over 1,300 inspections carried out to ensure businesses comply with national consumer laws.
According to a report by the Department of Public Information (DPI), the update was provided by Susan Rodrigues as the country joined the international observance of World Consumer Rights Day on Sunday under the theme “Safe Products, Confident Consumers.”
Rodrigues said that as Guyana continues its rapid economic expansion, protecting consumer rights remains an important priority to ensure that development is accompanied by fairness, transparency and accountability.
The minister noted that the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) conducted 1,331 inspections nationwide in 2025 to monitor compliance with the Consumer Affairs Act No. 13 of 2011.
In addition, 259 compliance certificates were issued to businesses that met regulatory standards, recognising companies that demonstrated responsible and ethical operations.
The commission also resolved 428 consumer complaints during the year, representing 85 percent of the matters received, according to Rodrigues.
She explained that the agency continues to undertake nationwide public education campaigns and school outreach programmes aimed at increasing awareness of consumer rights and informing citizens about the steps they can take when those rights are violated.
At the same time, the minister stressed the importance of strong enforcement mechanisms to ensure businesses comply with consumer protection laws.
“But awareness alone is not enough. Enforcement is key,” Rodrigues stated.
She said inspections and compliance monitoring remain critical tools to ensure that businesses meet their legal obligations to consumers.
Consumer protection efforts are also supported by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), which conducts inspections, testing and monitoring at ports of entry to prevent unsafe or substandard products from entering the local market.
