The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) has announced the launch of a public consultation on a draft Consumer Protection Policy which will help ensure that telecommunications customers’ interests are better protected.
Under the existing rules, telecommunications operators have a range of consumer protection obligations. The draft policy refers to those existing rules for completeness. It also sets out new obligations on operators, including a requirement to make available a simple summary of every retail offer, some minimum contractual terms which restrict an operator’s ability to impose inappropriate terms on consumers, and new obligations to help customers with disabilities.
“The best protection for consumers’ interests is a competitive telecommunications market,” said Dr. Eiman Al-Ansari, Consumer and Government Affairs Manager, Regulatory Authority, ictQATAR. “But even in the most competitive market, there will be a need for consumer protection rules and enforcement to ensure that operators compete fairly. This Consumer Protection Policy will fill gaps in the consumer protection framework in Qatar, help ensure that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions, and ensure that consumers have an effective remedy if something goes wrong”.
In line with best international practice, the policy also includes a strengthened system for monitoring and enforcing compliance with the rules, and provision for a dispute resolution process that is independent of operators.
“ictQATAR already operates an independent complaints service, which consumers can avail of if they are dissatisfied with the way their telecommunications operator has treated their complaint,” added Dr. Eiman. “The improvements made through the draft policy will make it more effective and better able to ensure that operators are acting in the interests of consumers.”
All interested parties are invited to provide their comments and views to the Regulatory Authority by November 7, 2013. The complete consultation document can be downloaded from this link. Comments should be submitted by email to: CGAconsult@ict.gov.qa or alternatively, in writing to:
The Regulatory Authority
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (ictQATAR)
PO Box 23264
Doha, Qatar