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The Government is stepping up publicity to encourage smart consumption and enhance consumers' awareness of their rights through a package of educational and publicity activities to be launched tomorrow (October 7).
A spokesman for the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau said a television and a radio Announcement in the Public Interest (API) to apprise consumers of the points to note in the pre-payment mode of consumption would be released tomorrow. A poster with the same theme will also be posted at different public venues to reinforce the message.
"Consumers normally enjoy discounts when using the pre-payment mode of consumption. There are, however, uncertainties involved. The API aims to remind consumers to think twice before committing to any pre-payment.
"In particular, consumers are advised to consider four main aspects before they come to a decision, i.e. whether they really need the goods or services, whether they can afford it, whether the products or services live up to the quality claims, and whether the company can be trusted," the spokesman said.
"In addition, for 12 consecutive Wednesdays starting tomorrow, we will collaborate with the Consumer Council and produce a weekly newspaper column to share with the public consumption tips and ways to avoid traps such as misleading advertisements and high pressure and aggressive tactics. The weekly columns (in Chinese) are also available on the Consumer Council's website (www.consumer.org.hk/web/ws_chi/smart/diary/)" he added.
Noting that public education was a continuous effort, the spokesman said that both the Government and the Consumer Council would continue to explore other publicity initiatives to strengthen consumer awareness.
To enhance legislative protection of consumers, the Government is currently reviewing consumer protection legislation with the aim of formulating legislative proposals for public consultation by the end of this year or early next year, the spokesman said.
Ends/Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:47
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