Advocates Push for Consumer Protection Law in Ghana

Ghana Urged to Pass Consumer Protection Law in 2025

Consumer sovereignty advocate CUTS International Accra has called on the Ghanaian government to pass a comprehensive consumer protection law this year. The Board Chairman, Justice Jones Dotse, a former Supreme Court judge, made the appeal in Accra during a World Consumer Rights Day symposium.

Why Ghana Needs a Consumer Protection Law

Justice Dotse emphasized that the absence of such legislation creates regulatory gaps, leaving consumers vulnerable. A well-structured law would:

✔ Establish a unified legal framework for consumer protection
✔ Bridge gaps in regulatory oversight
✔ Empower consumers to demand accountability from service providers

“The lack of this law is a major omission in our legal system, and we can no longer afford delays,” he stated.

CUTS International Accra’s Consumer Rights Report

At the event, CUTS International Accra launched its latest report, “The State of Consumer Rights in Ghana 2025: Insights into Awareness, Satisfaction, and Recommendations for Reform.” The study highlighted:

• Telecommunication challenges, including high mobile money costs and frequent network outages
  Limited consumer awareness, with only 36% of consumers knowing their rights to seek redress
  Regulatory gaps affecting service quality in utilities, banking, and aviation

Justice Dotse urged regulatory bodies—including the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), the National Communications Authority (NCA), and the Bank of Ghana (BoG)—to act swiftly on these concerns.

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Government’s Commitment to Consumer Protection

The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening consumer protection laws. In a speech read by Patricia Boateng Bannor, the Director of Standards, she announced that the ministry is working on legislation that will:

✔ Mandate transparent pricing
✔ Create accessible complaint mechanisms
✔ Empower regulators to hold businesses accountable
✔ Protect consumers from fraud and substandard goods

“This report provides valuable data to shape policies that reflect real consumer experiences,” she noted.

The Role of Standards in Consumer Protection

Professor Alex Dodoo, Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), stressed that strict enforcement is key. While Ghana has solid regulatory frameworks, he urged authorities to focus on implementation rather than just enacting new laws.

He also encouraged consumers to demand accountability and report violations when businesses fail to meet standards.

What’s Next?

With increasing advocacy, regulatory collaboration, and government pledges, Ghana is moving towards stronger consumer protection laws. However, swift action is needed to ensure that these efforts translate into real policy changes.

Conclusion

Consumer rights remain a pressing issue in Ghana. Advocates, regulators, and policymakers must work together to enforce existing standards, pass new legislation, and educate consumers on their rights. Only then can Ghana build a fairer, safer, and more accountable marketplace.