Better consumer protection in BES

Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (so-called BES islands) can achieve a stronger, more stable economy through a number of measures. Among other things, it is important that residents receive better consumer protection and that rules regarding competition are established.

This is stated by the advi­sory organisation “Econo­misch Bureau Amsterdam” (EBA). The Dutch govern­ment informed Parliament that it will respond to these recommendations in the autumn.

“According to EBA, a more coherent system for consumer protection and fair competition would contribute to better mar­ket functioning, stronger consumer protection and a more predictable business and investment climate,” wrote the Ministry of Eco­nomic Affairs and Climate Policy in an explanation of the “Fair Markets, Better Protection” report.

The reason for the study was a proposal from the So­cial Minimum Committee Minimum for the Carib­bean Netherlands in 2023 regarding the approach to poverty on the three is­lands. Better consumer protection and competition legislation could lead to lower prices on the islands, according to the committee chaired by Glenn Thodé. Commissioned by the min­istry, EBA investigated the possibilities. Researchers concluded that consumer protection on the three is­lands is at the lowest level within the Kingdom. This protection is necessary be­cause a number of entre­preneurs take advantage of their dominant position.

“During the investigation, several serious signs of anti­competitive practices were found in various sectors. (…) Additionally, there were ex­amples of unsafe products posing significant risks to consumers,” according to EBA.

The advice is to improve consumer protection and competition policy in several phases. The first step focusses on raising awareness regard­ing consumer rights and im­proving cooperation between the organisations involved. This will be followed by the introduction of legislation. The final step is cooperation between consumer and com­petition organisations within the Kingdom.

Minister Heleen Herbert said the report will be studied by her ministry, the govern­ments of Bonaire, St. Eusta­tius and Saba, the Authority for Consumers and Markets as well as other stakeholders.

“Possible next steps will be determined jointly and with due regard to the local context. Your House will be informed further about this in the autumn of 2026,” she wrote in an explanatory note.

The Daily Herald.