Imagine walking into a bustling market, expecting fairness, safety and choices. For consumers in Pakistan, this ideal marketplace is often far from reality. Despite the existence of laws, organisations and mechanisms, the gap between consumer rights on paper and in practice looms large. Vulnerabilities persist across sectors like healthcare, e-commerce and daily goods, making consumer protection more than a policy — it’s a pressing need.

Consumer protection laws are meant to ensure safety, fairness and informed decision-making. Yet challenges like weak enforcement, lack of awareness and exploitative practices create many barriers. Legal frameworks exist at both federal and provincial levels, offering a starting point for protection.

The Competition Act of 2010, enforced by the Competition Commission of Pakistan, targets monopolistic practices and ensures market fairness. This Act has tackled issues like price-fixing and market abuse in sectors such as telecommunications and pharmaceuticals. However, provincial laws, such as the Punjab Consumer Protection Act, face uneven enforcement and limited public access, making their impact inconsistent.

Over 2,000 complaints were registered in the Punjab in 2021, highlighting the demand for redress. From a delayed response to limited mechanisms, the promise of consumer protection often remains unfulfilled. While the laws provide a framework, the journey from grievance to justice is fraught with........

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