WILLEMSTAD – Consumer products with labels that do not comply with Curaçao’s legal requirements are being sold on the local market, according to Fundashon pa Konsumidó, which recently discussed the issue with the Health Inspectorate.
According to Health Inspector Lee, the Inspectorate is aware that products are being sold with labels written in languages that consumers in Curaçao may not be able to understand. The Inspectorate is currently discussing the matter with importers.
Under Curaçao’s labeling requirements, essential product information must be available in a language that can be understood locally: Papiamentu, Dutch, English or Spanish. This includes important information such as ingredients and production and expiration dates.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó says an increasing number of imported products are appearing on store shelves with labels, instructions or other information that many consumers cannot read or understand.
The organization warns that inadequate labeling can make it difficult for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions and, more importantly, to use products safely.
The issue is particularly relevant when consumers need to understand ingredients, expiration dates, warnings or instructions before purchasing or using a product.
Fundashon pa Konsumidó said it intends to continue working with the Health Inspectorate to improve compliance with Curaçao’s labeling requirements.
The consumer organization is also urging shoppers to carefully examine labels before purchasing products. When important information is unclear or unavailable in a language they understand, consumers are advised to request additional information or consider choosing another product.
Imported products undergo an initial check by Curaçao Customs. When Customs detects irregularities or has concerns about the safety of a product, the Health Inspectorate can be called in for further assessment.
If an investigation determines that a product is unsafe, it cannot be imported into Curaçao.