By Kizito CUDJOE
The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring consumer protection as it commissions the third cohort of 300 Trading Standards Inspectors (TSIs).
This move is part of efforts to build a robust system that protects consumers, ensures fair trade and upholds standards which safeguard public health, safety and confidence in the market.
TSIs are specially trained enforcement officers licenced by the GSA, with a mandate to verify the conformity of goods, services and processes to relevant mandatory and other applicable standards.
The Minister of Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, reiterated during the commissioning that this initiative will boost the country’s efforts to ensure fair trading practices and consumer protection.
She said the TSIs are “expected to play a critical role in ensuring sufficient consumer protection and checking the quality of goods and services on the market”.
The minister noted that this development forms part of government’s broader agenda to ensure accurate measurements, uphold quality control and support economic growth.
“As government strives to fulfil the vision of a 24-hour economy, the importance of TSIs cannot be overstated. A 24-hour economy demands a robust framework that supports reliable trade activities and the TSIs have a significant role in contributing to the realisation of this vision,” she said.
She maintained that by carefully inspecting products and services, the TSIs help to maintain high standards of quality and consumer safety – key to building trust and confidence in the market and essential for a thriving 24-hour economy.
“In a 24-hour economy, consumers expect access to safe and reliable products at any time of the day or night. The TSIs will ensure that businesses adhere to regulations that protect consumer rights,” she added.
She therefore urged the TSIs to carry out their duties with integrity. “Let us continue to support efforts of the inspectors and recognise the important role they play in our quest for a 24-hour economy.”
Mr. Clifford Frimpong, speaking on behalf of the Director General-GSA, acknowledged the significant progress made by inspectors in Cohorts 1 and 2 since their commissioning.
“They have been inspecting weighing and measuring instruments at marketplaces, protecting both consumers and businesses. Through surprise inspections and educational campaigns, they have helped reduce the circulation of substandard goods and unfair trade practices,” he said.
He also noted that their activities have contributed to greater awareness and compliance among market players, boosting confidence in the quality of goods and services across the country.
Director of Inspectorate at the GSA, Mrs. Jessica Nkansah, explained that the rationale for creating TSIs is grounded in a need for safer, more transparent and fairer markets for all.
“Too often, consumers encounter goods that are substandard, mislabelled or falsely measured. Traders who play by the rules find themselves at a disadvantage, competing against those who cut corners,” she said.
She stressed that TSIs have been created to level the playing field, reward integrity and compliance and protect the interests of both consumers and responsible traders.
“TSIs will carry out a wide range of crucial activities, including checking the quality, accuracy and safety of goods and services on the market; verifying volumes and weights to prevent deception.
“They also include collecting samples for laboratory testing; identifying non-compliant products and traders and taking appropriate enforcement actions; gathering evidence and testifying in court; undertaking undercover investigations where necessary; providing public education and sensitisation; and receiving and addressing consumer complaints.”
Mrs. Nkansah added that these inspectors will serve as both watchdogs and educators, working not only to enforce but also inform.
