Govt to strengthen consumer rights body: commerce minister

The Department of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) will be strengthened with more manpower, modern equipment, and expanded digital services to ensure adulteration-free, safe, and quality products for consumers, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said today.

Speaking at a meeting with DNCRP officials at its office in Dhaka, Muktadir said it is the state's responsibility to ensure no one is forced to buy adulterated, substandard, or harmful products with their hard-earned money.

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He added that the department plays a vital role in protecting the consumer rights of the country's 17 to 18 crore people, according to a press release. 

Outlining future operational plans, he said existing services will gradually be brought onto digital platforms, alongside increased training and use of modern technology.

To guide structural reforms, the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) will be engaged to study the structure, manpower, and service activities of consumer rights organisations in different countries, he said, adding that the department's work would be expanded based on the study's recommendations.

Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan was present at the meeting, alongside DNCRP Director General Md Zahirul Islam and Export Promotion Bureau Vice-Chairman Mohammad Hasan Arif.