Consumers across the world affected because of the war as the globe marks world consumer rights day

Returning a defective item can be difficult. Consumers often face obstacles when seeking replacements or refunds 

By Yohan Perera

Whilst highlighting that the consumers across the world are adversely affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, intellectuals stressed the need for powerful consumer societies across the globe to take on the global powers and the powerful business entities to minimize its effect.   

These intellectuals voiced their opinions at a program held to mark World Consumer Rights Day and the formation of the Federation of Professionals and Professional Organizations in Sri Lanka UK and Europe at OPA auditorium in Colombo.   

“A powerful consumer association could send a message to the world leaders at a time when the consumers are affected as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. It is not the world leaders who are behind the conflict but giant global business tycoons who control the politicians,” Professor Prathiba Mahanamahewa of Department of Commercial Law of University of Colombo said.   

He said powerful consumer rights associations would be more powerful than trade unions.   

“Pakistan had gone into Zoom technology after it was affected by the fuel scarcity brought on by the Middle East conflict. Sri Lanka will have to do the same before long,” he added,” he also said.   

Sarath Wijesinghe PC who was former Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel and one time Chairman of Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) said the consumer landscape has become more complicated with the introduction of credit cards, online shopping, and international digital platforms operating in Sri Lanka. 

“Consumers increasingly use these services in a country where mobile and internet penetration exceeds 100 percent,” he said.   

“Unfortunately, CAA , the principal regulator, operates under an outdated legal framework. The Act has not kept pace with international standards, and the system is often seen as slow and inefficient. As global markets rapidly evolve, including in neighbouring India, Sri Lanka’s regulatory framework struggles to keep pace with modern developments in consumer protection and digital commerce. The CAA is expected to celebrate World Consumer Day as an important national event. 

“It is heavily funded by the State and has collected millions through fines imposed on traders. However, some groups argue that such penalties can sometimes be excessive. In many countries the modern approach is to prioritize education and awareness for consumers and traders, with punishment used only as a last resort,” he added.   

Traders are generally careful to maintain goodwill and reputation, which are essential assets in business. In countries such as the United Kingdom, goods purchased can often be returned without providing a reason. This strengthens consumer confidence and promotes fair business practices.   

In Sri Lanka, however, returning a defective item can be difficult. Consumers often face obstacles when seeking replacements or refunds. In many Western economies, competition between traders naturally leads to price reductions. In Sri Lanka, however, the traditional concept of price control has shifted toward price regulation, which some critics view as ineffective. The current regulatory framework is sometimes described as weak and lacking enforcement strength.   

President Sarvodaya Sharamadana Movement Vinya Ariyaratne said the consumers should go beyond those who merely look at price and the SLS mark but should become active custodians of resources.