Kingston, Jamaica – The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) says it has secured more than $131 million in refunds and compensation for customers over the last three years, of which a “significant portion” came from the motor vehicle sector.

The disclosure was made by Richard Rowe, Director of the Western Region of the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) in an electrifying presentation at the recently concluded, “Best Practices for Motor Vehicle Importation Webinar”, held by the Trade Board in partnership with the CAC and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA).

“The Commission has handled 4,390 complaints and successfully resolved 3,532, achieving a resolution rate of 80.45 per cent,” Rowe said, noting that “The consumer is the largest economic group and plays a vital role in any market economy. When empowered, consumers can improve economic performance by helping to drive competition and business innovation. However, this is not necessarily the case in Jamaica.”

He also noted that “consumers should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when importing vehicles to ensure that they receive a product that meets Jamaican standards. Empowered and informed consumers help drive improvements in service delivery and compliance within the industry.”

He further stated that, “our role is to ensure that consumers and importers are informed and empowered to make decisions that protect their investments and their rights.”

As global trade continues to grow, it is more important than ever for consumers to understand their rights and responsibilities when importing motor vehicles. These rights include transparency in pricing, protection against faulty goods, and access to information about the vehicle’s history and condition before purchase.

Rowe expounded on the eight basic rights of consumers when purchasing used motor vehicles, with a particular emphasis on the rights to choose the importer, information on the model year, delivery of roadworthy vehicles and clear avenues for redress.

“When you make a purchase and there is a problem, you should go back to the vendor. The vendor should do one of three things – repair the item under the terms and conditions of warranty, replace the vehicle with one of similar value or offer a full refund,” he explained.

The Director of Western Region at the CAC further outlined that, “under the Consumer Protection Act of 2005, consumers are entitled to a full redress, regardless of whether or not the vendor has a no refund policy.  This Act supersedes any company policy by making provisions for the consumer who is entitled to a repair of the item, replacement of the item or a full refund.”

In affirming the significant burden of responsibility that is tied to one’s rights, Rowe urged the online audience to be aware of their responsibilities and resign themselves from disinterest and take action.

He contended that “we have a can’t bother yaaah attitude, we spend J$500,000.00 and we cyaaa badda, we spend 5 million Jamaican dollars and wi cyaaa badda and I have to wonder how much do we need to spend to bother.”

As part of its commitment to ensuring consumer protection, the Consumer Affairs Commission engages in robust public education programmes to raise awareness about consumer rights.

Consumers are encouraged to download the CAC Mobile App for updated consumer information or to lodge a complaint. Other mechanisms to lodge complaints include the “File A Complaint” section of the CAC website: www.cac.gov.jm or via telephone at (876) 619 – 4222.