By Samuel Gillis
On Friday, Guyana joined nations worldwide in commemorating World Consumer Rights Day, with a special emphasis on the theme “Fair and responsible AI for consumers.”
The Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) underscored the importance of consumer education regarding the benefits and risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
According to Rusante Perry, a Consumer Affairs Officer, the commission aims to empower consumers with knowledge about AI’s advantages while also safeguarding them against potential misuse of the technology.
Perry emphasized the critical aspect of data privacy amidst the AI era and highlighted the CCAC’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance consumer assistance, including the launch of their first-ever AI platform for 24/7 consumer support.
Meanwhile, the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department also participated in the observances.
Acting Senior Food Inspector Crystal Nunes emphasized the department’s efforts to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities concerning food safety and the use of medical devices.
Nunes stressed the importance of consumers ensuring that food suppliers possess necessary certifications, maintain cleanliness standards, and adhere to labeling and packaging integrity when purchasing ready-to-eat food items.
Both the CCAC and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department reiterated their commitment to ongoing consumer education, emphasizing the significance of policies and procedures in safeguarding consumer rights and responsibilities.
World Consumer Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting consumer interests in an increasingly digital and technologically driven world, with a focus on ensuring fairness and responsibility in the use of AI for consumers.