In 2011, Consumer Council handled a total of 6850 cases, involving an amount of almost MOP 16 million. Case completion rate was over 90%. A detailed analysis of complaint cases received in 2011 and the changes in complaint cases in recent years are featured in the latest issue of Consumer Report. Consumer Council indicated that consumers' awareness of their own rights and protection has been greatly enhanced through its promotions and educational work. Both local residents and tourists make inquiries before making consumption, as a great number of cases handled by the Council in recent years were inquiries. In 2011, inquiry cases accounted for about 70% (almost 5000 cases) of the total 6850 cases, almost 1700 cases were complaints, and 170 cases were suggestions; the total amount involved in all these cases was about MOP 16 million. To guarantee consumers' rights to seek redress in economic terms, Consumer Council endeavours to provide better and professional legal assistance to consumers to safeguard their rights. In 2011, case completion rate was over 90%, which was about the same percentage as the previous year. This year, the Council will continue to enhance its publicity and educational work and provide information on consumer issues. Consumer Council, along with Legal Affairs Bureau (DSAJ), will co-host series of events, including a carnival at Iao Hon Market Garden on 15th March, as well as an online quiz, to celebrate this year's 'World Consumer Rights Day'. The latest Consumer Report also features an article on the aim of the annual theme 'Consumption and Safety' of China Consumers' Association. Consumer Report is now available free of charge at the office of Consumer Council (Rua Inácio Baptista, Nº 6-6A Edficio Seaview Garden R/C), and the service counter of Consumer Council at Macao SAR Government Service Centre (Rua Nova da Areia Preta, Nº52), Public Information Centre at Vicky Plaza and libraries. Consumers may also access the resources online at the Council's official website (http://www.consumer.gov.mo). For enquiries, please call 8988 9315.
