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Bill to ease way for consumer lawsuits
Vietnamese consumers will find it easier to sue producers of low-quality products under a new bill which the parliament will consider passing next year.
According to the bill, customers would not have to demonstrate losses caused by the products; the onus would be on producers to show that their products meet quality standards.
Le Danh Vinh, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, said it was difficult sometimes for consumers to prove losses suffered, citing the example of gasoline.
Many citizens have complained that low-quality gasoline has caused their vehicles to break down. However, it was hard for them to prove their accusation since tests and assessments were time-consuming and costly, Vinh said at a recent conference in Hanoi.
Ho Tat Thang, Deputy Chairman of the Vietnam Standard and Consumers Association, said consumers are in a weak position since they usually lack information about products and are not involved in the negotiation of trade contracts.
“Consumers’ rights are being seriously violated, but it is still difficult to protect them,” he said.
“When the law comes into effect, consumers will have better opportunities to sue and win lawsuits,” Thang said.
The draft law reduces procedures for lawsuits with a trial opening within three weeks after consumers lodge a complaint within stipulated time limits. The time limit will also depend on the value of the trade.
According to Vinh, the bill also affirms consumers’ right to take class action against a producer or service provider if the complaint has more than 100 signatories.
Ngan Anh
thanhnien
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