Cellphone Repair Technicians Raise Concerns Over New Consumer Protection Act

Cellphone repair technicians met with the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division on December 10 to discuss the impact of the new Consumer Protection Act 2025 on their businesses. The meeting, held at the Inland Revenue Department’s Conference Room, was led by Director of Prices and Consumer Affairs, Orrin Steele, and attended by more than 20 technicians.

Technicians raised concerns about new requirements such as price displays, record keeping, disclosure of non-genuine parts, consumer approval for additional repairs, and the return of defective goods. Under the Act, repair service providers must now issue written or electronic records detailing customer information, repair descriptions, estimated costs, and timelines, which must be approved by consumers.

While some participants noted increased operational costs, many acknowledged that the changes could improve customer tracking and dispute resolution. Challenges were also highlighted in setting fixed prices for certain services, with technicians advised to provide price ranges where market conditions fluctuate.

Steele reminded technicians that non-genuine parts must be disclosed to consumers and clearly stated on receipts, warning that misleading sales could result in fines of up to EC$5,000 or imprisonment. The Division also recommended a 90-day period for customers to collect repaired devices, provided this is clearly stated in service agreements.

Other topics included refund policies for non-defective parts, consumer approval for additional repairs, and cancellation fees for layaway agreements. The Division said it will continue working with technicians to support compliance while protecting consumer rights.