Which? responds to the news that the New Zealand trade agreement in principle includes a Consumer Protection Chapter

“Which? has long advocated for a consumer chapter to be included in trade deals and we are pleased to see this in the agreement in principle with New Zealand.

“This chapter will be a world first and should help reinforce the importance of ensuring the deal works for consumers, that their cross-border consumer rights are enhanced and that their interests are promoted throughout the other chapters – including maintaining food, data, environmental and online shopping protections. Our recent research found that eight in 10 people said there should be a section within trade deals supporting consumer interests.

“The success of future agreements will be judged on what they deliver for ordinary people in their everyday lives, not just the export opportunities they provide. The government must use this agreement to set a precedent for including a consumer chapter in future trade deals and ensuring people’s interests are properly represented.”