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- 48.
- A brief reference to ``consumer interests'' was first introduced into the Guidelines in 1984, to reflect increasingly international aspects of consumer policies and the impact that the expansion of international trade, product packaging, marketing and sales and product safety can have on those policies. Since that time, the development of electronic commerce and the increased globalisation of the marketplace have substantially increased the reach of MNEs and consumer access to their goods and services. In recognition of the increasing importance of consumer issues, a substantial percentage of enterprises, in their management systems and codes of conduct include references to consumer interests and protections.
- 49.
- In light of these changes, and with an eye to helping enhance consumer safety and health, a chapter on consumer interests has been added to the Guidelines as a result of the current Review. Language in this chapter draws on the work of the OECD Committee on Consumer Policy, as well as that embodied in various individual and international corporate codes (such as those of the ICC), the UN Guidelines on Consumer Policy, and the OECD Guidelines for Consumer Protection in the Context of Electronic Commerce.
- 50.
- A variety of consumer protection laws exist that govern business practices. The emerging framework is intended to both protect consumer interests and foster economic growth and places a growing emphasis on the use of self-regulatory mechanisms. As noted, many existing national and international corporate codes of conduct include a reference to some aspect of consumer protection and amplify the commitment of industry to help protect health and safety and build consumer confidence in the marketplace. Ensuring that these sorts of practices provide consumers with effective and transparent protection is essential to help build trust that encourages consumer participation and market growth.
- 51.
- The emphasis on alternative dispute resolution in paragraph 3 of the chapter is an attempt to focus on what may in many cases be a more practicable solution to complaints than legal action which can be expensive, difficult and time consuming for everyone involved. It is particularly important that complaints relating to the consumption or use of a particular product that results in serious risks or damages to public health should be resolved in a fair and timely manner without undue cost or burden to the consumer.
- 52.
- Regarding paragraph 5, enterprises could look to the OECD Guidelines Governing the Protection of Privacy and Transborder Flows of Personal Data as a helpful basis for protecting personal data.
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