“We have safe products being produced right here in Saint Lucia.”
Saint Lucia joined the global observance of World Consumer Rights Day 2026 with a national symposium held at the Derek Walcott Square under the theme ‘Safe Products, Confident Consumers’. The event brought together regulators, local businesses, and consumers to promote product safety, responsible business practices, and informed consumer decision-making in the marketplace.
Event Planner and Director of the Consumer Affairs Department, Wendy Frederick, highlighted the importance of supporting locally produced goods while ensuring consumers remain empowered to make safe and informed purchasing decisions. “We have safe products being produced right here in Saint Lucia. At this symposium, approximately ten local businesses are showcasing their products, allowing consumers to see firsthand the quality and innovation taking place within our local marketplace. Of course, this day is dedicated to consumers and to empowering their rights as we observe World Consumer Rights Day,” she noted.
Discussions also emphasized the role of collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and consumers in maintaining a fair and transparent marketplace. Permanent Secretary in the Department of Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, Shelia Imbert, explained the broader global factors affecting consumer markets and the need for vigilance and strong governance. “International instability can lead to higher shipping costs, shortages of raw materials, and fluctuations in the prices of essential commodities. Therefore, it is essential that we maintain strong regulatory frameworks, that businesses uphold ethical practices, and that consumers remain informed and engaged. As we observe World Consumer Rights Day, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that every consumer in Saint Lucia can purchase goods and services with confidence, knowing that their rights are protected and their well-being safeguarded,” Permanent Secretary, Imbert added.
The symposium also showcased a number of local entrepreneurs who are contributing to the development of safe, locally produced products while promoting innovation within the consumer marketplace. “The name of my business is Vell’s Multi-Services and I specialize in the production of local wines. One of our signature products is made from the Latanier palm. While the leaves of the Latanier are traditionally used to make the common brooms used in many homes, we utilize the seeds of the palm to produce wine. Many persons who have used the product have shared positive testimonials, including individuals who say it has helped them manage prostate-related concerns,” the entrepreneur said.
Similarly, other local entrepreneurs used the opportunity to highlight how traditional knowledge and herbal ingredients are being transformed into value-added products for the local market. “Family Delight Herbal Juice… (specializes) in the production of natural herbal juices made from fresh ingredients. For example, we offer a blend of beet and ginger, which is available either sweetened or unsweetened to suit different preferences. We also produce unique combinations such as watermelon and tomato blended with lemon, creating refreshing and nutritious beverage options.”
The observance of World Consumer Rights Day reaffirms the Government of Saint Lucia’s commitment to strengthening consumer protection, promoting responsible commerce, and ensuring a marketplace that is safe, transparent, and fair for all citizens.
