The Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency (GCCA) has introduced 10 key standards to promote a fair and transparent marketplace, prevent unfair commercial, and empower them to make informed choices while ensuring their rights are protected.
These standards address critical issues identified in GCCA case reviews while integrating best international practices. Developed in accordance with the law of Georgian on the Protection of Consumer Rights and aligned with European directives, they mark a significant step toward enhancing consumer rights protection in Georgia.
1. Advance Notice Standard
When modifying its trading policy, a business must inform consumers of any changes in advance, within a reasonable timeframe. This information must be provided clearly, intelligibly, and in the Georgian language.
2. Georgian Language Service Standard
Consumers have the right to request and receive information in the state language, and the lack of knowledge of the language cannot be a reason for refusing service.
3. Goods Repair Standard
For warranty repairs, the standard repair period is set at 30 calendar days. If justified, this period may be extended to a maximum of 60 days.
4. Price Transparency Standard in Food Menus
Bars and restaurants must display the total price of menu items, including value-added tax (VAT) and any additional fees, such as service charges.
5. Product Handover Condition Standard
A product is considered delivered in visually flawless condition once the consumer signs an acceptance document confirming its state. If the consumer declines to inspect the item, responsibility for any visual defects transfers to them.
6. Pricing Standard for Limited-Time (Sales)
It is considered an unfair commercial practice for traders to create a false sense of urgency by using deceptive countdown timers to promote special prices.
7. Unit Price Standard
For goods that are not pre-packaged and are weighed or measured at the point of sale, the price per unit (e.g., per kilogram, liter, or meter) must be clearly displayed.
8. Discount and Special Offer Standard
When announcing a discount, traders must display three prices: the original price, the discounted price, and the lowest price offered in the last 30 days. This regulation does not apply to perishable or short-shelf-life products and medications.
9. Advertising Price Disclosure Standard
Advertisements for goods or services must clearly display the price along with other essential information.
10. Online Pricing Standard
When offering goods or services on social media or other online platforms, traders must clearly and prominently display the price.
