Setting up of Consumer affairs authority considered imminent

The authority will encourage competition and adopt a focused approach on consumer protection, by merging already existing entities into the new authority. The Times adds that the MCCAA will be involved in setting standards in products and services.

Parliamentary Secretary for Consumers and Fair Competition Chris Said will be responsible for drafting the law to get the agency going. The same newspaper reports the Bill will soon be open for consultation with stakeholders, after which the discussion will be taken up in parliament.

The focus of the authority will be to “promote, maintain and encourage competition, safeguard the interests of consumers and enhance their welfare and promote sound business practices,” The Times said.

The MCCAA will merge already existing authorities such as the Consumer and Competition Department (CCD), the Office for Fair Trading, the Office for Consumer Affairs and the Office for Fair Competition together with other authorities that set standards and regulations for products. This should encourage all entities to work towards the same aim of the consumer’s well-being.

The authority is expected to be independent and autonomous, separate from government and the public sector.