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Consumer law worries firms
Business associations in HCM City have suggested that a new law on consumer protection, which is expected to be passed next year, should balance the interests of consumers and companies.
Company representatives voiced their opinions on the new draft law at a conference held yesterday by the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Industry and Trade in HCM City.
They discussed such topics as the law’s scope and objectives, dispute mediation, and the creation of consumer protection offices and a consumer protection fund.
Phan Thong Anh, director of the Hop Danh Law Firm, said a Consumer Protection Fund should be set up and the law must take into account the interests of businesses as well as consumers.
Phan Thi Viet Thu, representative of HCM City’s Consumer Protection Association, said many consumers regularly suffered losses because they lacked legal protection.
She said the draft law should contain provisions on the responsibilities and duties of consumers as well.
According to a national survey conducted last year by the Viet Nam Standards and Customers Association, 41 per cent of Vietnamese consumers were unaware of their rights, and the remaining 59 per cent who were aware of current regulations chose to take no action.
Le Danh Vinh, deputy minister of Trade and Industry, said the law would protect consumers as well as trademarks and products of businesses.
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