India to Lead Global Consumer Protection Law Discussion in 2026
India will take the helm at the Ninth Session of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy, organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This pivotal event is set to unfold from July 6 to 8, 2026, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. Bringing together member states, international organizations, consumer protection authorities, academia, and various stakeholders, the session aims to address emerging challenges in consumer protection law and policy.
The IGE serves as the foremost platform for intergovernmental dialogue and cooperation concerning consumer protection laws, established under the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection. India’s role in this domain has been significant, especially highlighted during the Ninth United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection in July 2025, where the Department of Consumer Affairs showcased India’s effective approach to resolving cross-border consumer disputes through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) and its innovative pre-litigation convergence model.
Leading India’s delegation will be Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, who has been invited by UNCTAD to chair this important session. Her role will involve presiding over discussions and guiding member states in critical deliberations on global consumer protection priorities.
Session Highlights and Discussions
Key aspects of the upcoming session include the introduction of the United Nations Principles for Consumer Product Safety, which the UN General Assembly adopted in December 2025. A notable feature will be a high-level fireside chat titled ‘Why the Principles Matter’, where India will make a significant contribution. Furthermore, discussions will focus on the implementation of the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection (UNGCP) by various member states.
Other agenda items include consumer information and education initiatives, sustainable consumption practices, enforcement of consumer protection laws in global markets, and matters related to cross-border consumer protection. A voluntary peer review of Argentina’s consumer protection law and policy is also on the table, along with a review of recent legal and institutional developments and capacity-building efforts.
Over the past 14 months, the National Consumer Helpline has accomplished impressive results, facilitating refunds totaling more than ₹91.77 crore by effectively resolving over 1.47 lakh refund-related grievances without the need for litigation. The department has also enhanced consumer dispute mechanisms through e-Jagriti, an AI-enabled digital platform that simplifies the process of lodging complaints, hosting virtual hearings, and managing cases electronically. Notably, this platform extends support to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and consumers living abroad, making it easier for them to pursue their consumer rights from a distance.
India’s leadership at the Ninth Session underscores its commitment to fostering international cooperation and enhancing consumer protection frameworks across borders. The efforts made by India reflect its ongoing dedication to effective consumer advocacy and robust legal support systems.
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