The need for Consumer Protection

 

Globalization

Post World War Two till to date saw the fastest increase in the human population fueling demand for products and services around the world.International trade grew during this period and had positive impact on per capita income in many parts of the world. Supply and value chains became more complex with many products moving across countries and continents.As outputs rush to meet increasing demand, problems with quality of products appeared to be constant source of complaints.

Consumer complaints

Consumers complaints of injury due to poor product design, unethical business practices, misleading advertisements increased. Individuals volunteering to represent consumer interests. Their call for better protection of consumers resulted in development of consumer protection laws, and a growing number of consumer advocates in many areas, namely food and chemical safety.

Environment

Population and industrial growth driven by fossil fuel and unsustainable land use led to environmental problems. World consumption pattern was hurting the environment and subsequently the economy and people’s way of life. This resulted in campaigns for responsible consumption. International Standards Organisations like ISO responded with standards related to environmental sustainability, like ISO 14001.

Technology

The Internet age and the internet of things albeit opportunities brought about new consumer concerns related to privacy and personal data protection.