The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Zuko Godlimpi says even though South Africa has made significant advancements in establishing a strong legislative and institutional framework to protect the rights of consumers, legislation alone is not enough to protect consumers.
He says what ultimately matters is effective enforcement, institutional capacity and public awareness.
He was speaking at the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day hosted at the University of Limpopo in Polokwane. The event was a result of multi stakeholder partnership which included the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Limpopo government, the National Consumer Commission, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS).
He said the role of the National Consumer Commission is critical in driving economic justice and social equity.
“The Commission serves as the frontline institution responsible for investigating complaints, enforcing compliance with consumer protection legislation, and ensuring that businesses that engage in unfair or deceptive conduct are held accountable. Through its work, the Commission helps to restore balance in the marketplace by ensuring that consumers have somewhere to turn when their rights are violated. A strong, well-resourced and effective National Consumer Commission is therefore essential for maintaining confidence in the market. It ensures that businesses that operate ethically are not undercut by those that seek to profit through unfair or deceptive practices.”
Godlimpi added that government remains committed to strengthening this ecosystem inclusive of other regulatory bodies so that it can respond effectively to emerging challenges, particularly in rapidly evolving sectors such as digital commerce and financial services.
He highlighted the critical place of the private sector in all these efforts.
“Businesses themselves play a central role in shaping the fairness and integrity of the marketplace. The vast majority of South African businesses operate responsibly and contribute significantly to our country’s development, employment creation and economic growth. These businesses understand that consumer trust is one of their most valuable assets. Trust cannot be legislated into existence, rather, it must be earned through consistent ethical conduct.”
Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Zuko Godlimpi, addressing attendees to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day at the University of Limpopo, in Polokwane.
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