Research has been identified as one of the three core functions of the Consumer Affairs Division owing to the need of the MTI to be continuously apprised of all developments that are likely to impact on consumers. It is for this reason that the Research Unit (RU) exists.

Given the dynamic nature of consumerism and the economic environment within which it operates, there are distinct proactive, reactive and routine aspects to the research function at the CAD. These include:

• Researching emerging trends in consumer behaviour, including its negative impacts on the environment
• Conducting activities to support the Division’s mandate to educate, inform and protect consumers
• Assessing the quality of selected goods and services that may impact on the health and safety of consumers as well as engage in product testing and rating to ensure best quality for money
• Collecting data on prices of selected items to inform understanding of pricing and supply issues, for example, food and hardware items
• Providing data and analyses to support policy formulation
• Compiling reports on selected consumer issues
• Representing the Division on various Specification Committees of the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) and other Ministerial Committees.

• Any member of the public who is dissatisfied with a good or service and is seeking redress or advice.
• Any person or agency who is seeking or interested in consumer-related information.
• Suppliers requiring guidance on the basis of complaints.

When lodging a formal complaint you should walk with

• Original (and a copy) of your receipts, warranties and all over relevant documentation. Receipts should clearly show the date of purchase, the name of the establishment at which the item was bought, the item and price.
• Valid Identification Card or Driver’s License.
• The defective item (if the item is small enough to be carried) Photo evidence is also welcomed.