The guidelines apply both to home-produced goods and services and to imports. “In
applying any procedures or regulations for consumer protection, due regard should be
given to ensuring that they do not become barriers to international trade and that they are
consistent with international trade obligations.”
3
The guidelines deal with the following
matters – physical safety, promotion and protection of consumers’ economic interests,
standards for the safety and quality of consumer goods and services, distribution facilities
for essential consumer goods and services, measures enabling consumers to obtain redress,
education and information programmes, measures relating to specific areas. The resolution
also provides specific guidelines on prioritised “areas of essential concern for the health of
the consumer, such as food, water and pharmaceuticals