India Takes Global Command: Secretary to Chair Landmark UNCTAD Session on International Consumer Safety Standards

India Takes Global Command: Secretary to Chair Landmark UNCTAD Session on International Consumer Safety Standards​

India is set to take a leading role in global consumer welfare discussions, as the Department of Consumer Affairs prepares to chair the Ninth Session of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy. This crucial gathering, organized by the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD), will convene policymakers from across the globe to deliberate on the evolving landscape of consumer protection law.

The three-day session is scheduled to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 06 to 08 July 2026. The Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) functions as the primary intergovernmental platform facilitating dialogue and cooperation concerning consumer protection policies worldwide.

India's Leadership in Global Consumer Protection Policy​

Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, has been invited by UNCTAD to preside over the deliberations. Her leadership underscores India’s commitment to international regulatory advancements.

The session is highly significant as it marks key moments in global consumer safety advocacy. Among the primary agenda items will be the launch of the United Nations Principles for Consumer Product Safety, a framework adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2025.

Furthermore, India will participate actively in a High-Level Fireside Chat focused on "Why the Principles Matter," contributing insights to the international community. Discussions are also slated concerning the practical implementation of the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection (UNGCP) across member states.

Domestic Milestones Paving Way for Global Expertise​

India's engagement is backed by substantial domestic successes in consumer protection enforcement. The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has played a pivotal role in resolving grievances before they escalate into costly litigation.

Over the last fourteen months, the NCH facilitated over 1.47 lakh refund-related grievances across 36 sectors. This proactive resolution capability resulted in facilitating refunds totaling more than $\text{₹}91.77$ crore for consumers.

This strong domestic foundation allows India to guide international discussions on complex issues such as sustainable consumption and consumer information. The Department is also committed to discussing enforcement of consumer protection law within global markets, including cross-border disputes.

Leveraging Digital Tools for Cross-Border Dispute Resolution​

A major element highlighting India’s advanced regulatory infrastructure is the integration of technology into dispute resolution. The government has strengthened its consumer redressal mechanism through e-Jagriti.

e-Jagriti is an AI-enabled digital platform designed to modernize complaint filing and case management. It facilitates virtual hearings and provides consumers with digital access to all proceedings.

Crucially, this platform supports cross-border disputes by allowing Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and consumers residing abroad to pursue their consumer complaints digitally. This capability showcases India's active engagement in robustly advancing global cooperative frameworks for effective consumer protection.