DTI Pomotes Fair Trade Laws to Boost Cavite Business Regulation

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Cavite office (DTI-Cavite) is stepping up efforts to strengthen enforcement of Fair Trade Laws (FTLs) at the local level, aiming to support ethical business practices and consumer protection across the province.

In a recent forum with the Cavite Association of Business Permits and Licensing Officers (CABPLO), DTI-Cavite officials urged local regulators to incorporate FTLs as part of their standard criteria for evaluating and inspecting business permit applications. The initiative seeks to align local implementation with national regulations, including the Consumer Act of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 7394).

“Fair Trade Laws serve as critical tools in ensuring establishments operate within the bounds of legal and ethical standards,” said Rexel Amparo, Officer-in-Charge of DTI-Cavite’s Consumer Protection Division. He was joined by Trade Industry Development Specialist Arner Olayres, who highlighted the key provisions of RA 7394, including the protection of consumer rights and the roles of various implementing agencies.

The Consumer Act, enacted in 1992, is the primary legislation governing consumer protection in the Philippines, mandating rules on labeling, product standards, deceptive sales practices, and warranties. Its enforcement is shared among agencies including DTI, the Department of Health, and the Department of Agriculture.

DTI-Cavite said enhancing LGUs’ knowledge of FTLs would promote consistent regulatory practices across municipalities, improving transparency and fairness in local business environments.

The program is part of the agency’s broader campaign to promote responsible business conduct and empower local stakeholders to help enforce national trade policies.