Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy

GROUP OF 77
GENEVA

STATEMENT OF THE GROUP OF 77 AND CHINA DELIVERED BY H.E SUON PRASITH, AMBASSADOR AND PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF CAMBODIA AND PRESIDENT OF THE GROUP 77 AND CHINA (GENEVA) AT THE EIGHTH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL GROUP OF EXPERTS (IGE) ON CONSUMER PROTECTION LAW AND POLICY
(Geneva, 1 July 2024)

President of the 8th Session of the IGE on Consumer Protection Law and Policy,
Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD, Mr. Pedro Moreno
Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,
Ladies and gentlemen,

1. It is with great honor and privilege that I deliver this statement today on behalf of the Group of 77 and China at this opening plenary. This session marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers worldwide.

2. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to congratulate You, Chair (Ms. Cynthia Zapata, Director of Consumer Protection in Costa Rica), and Vice-Chair (Ms. Yvonne Stein, Deputy Director of Consumer Protection in Sweden) your assumption of the chairmanship at this Eighth Session of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Consumer Protection Law and Policy.

3. Consumer protection is not merely a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative that resonates deeply with our shared values of fairness, equity, and justice. We are particularly appreciative that the issue of consumer protection is addressed at the United Nations, with UN Trade and Development serving as the guardian of the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection and hosting the highest intergovernmental meetings on consumer protection globally.

4. Protecting and empowering consumers in fair and contestable markets is a priority for the Group of 77 and China, and we are reassured that UN Trade and Development prioritizes the development perspective in addressing this issue.

5. The implementation of the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection has been foundational to our efforts in elevating consumer rights to a global standard. Over the past year, member States and relevant stakeholders have made significant strides in embedding these guidelines into their national frameworks. These guidelines provide a comprehensive blueprint for action, offering clarity and direction in areas such as product safety, electronic commerce, and the empowerment of consumers.

6. However, while we celebrate the progress made, we must also acknowledge the challenges that persist. Many developing countries still face significant barriers in fully implementing these guidelines due to inadequate legal and institutional frameworks and a low culture of consumer protection in markets. It is imperative that we intensify our support for these nations through targeted capacity-building initiatives, technical assistance and resource allocation. This will not only facilitate uniform application of the guidelines within the rules and regulations of the countries but also foster a more inclusive and equitable global consumer protection environment.

7. The voluntary peer reviews conducted by UNCTAD have been crucial in assessing consumer protection laws and policies. These reviews provide valuable insights and recommendations for improving legal frameworks and enforcement practices. It is crucial that we continue to support and participate in these peer reviews, using them as a tool for continuous improvement and mutual learning. All reviewed countries since the inception of these reviews in 2018-Chile, Gabon, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, and Thailand-are members of the Group of 77 and China, and we feel privileged and responsible. We encourage other countries within the Group of 77 and China to volunteer for these exercises and call upon the donor community to ensure a predictable and continuous source of funding for voluntary peer reviews on consumer protection law and policy.

8. Given the absence of comprehensive international regulations governing e-commerce, it is imperative that we establish clear guidelines and standards, with a particular focus on consumer protection encompassing the developing countries concern. The rapid growth of digital marketplaces necessitates a robust framework to safeguard consumers' rights, ensure fair business practices, and promote trust in online transactions across borders.

9. The Group of 77 and China remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to advance consumer protection and promote sustainable and inclusive development.

10. To this end, the Group of 77 and China wishes you a productive Eighth Session of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy.

Thank you.