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Press Release

Consumer Choice Center Launches “Consumer Champs” Campaign Ahead of European Parliament Elections

Brussels, 12 Feb 2024 -The Consumer Choice Center is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking “Consumer Champs” campaign, dedicated to helping European voters navigate the complex landscape of political candidates vying for seats in the European Parliament in 2024. 

With over 12,000 candidates running, Consumer Champs aims to be the go-to resource for voters curious about where their political candidates stand on issues vital to consumer rights and choice. The campaign is designed to guide voters through the labyrinth of public policy positions, focusing on critical areas such as trade, digital freedom, sustainability, and more. 

The heart of the campaign lies in an interactive website that allows voters to explore candidates in their country, understand their views on pressing consumer issues, and make informed choices on Election Day.

“Our mission is to spotlight the values and stances of parties and individual politicians at the European level. Will they uphold bureaucratic norms with a centralized approach, or will they champion change by prioritizing consumer rights and choice, limiting the overreach of centralized institutions?” commented Zoltan Kesz, Government Affairs Manager at Consumer Choice Center.

Consumer Champs encourages active participation from voters by urging their political candidates to transparently outline their preferences on crucial consumer rights issues before the European Parliament elections. The campaign believes in the power of transparency and the role voters can play in influencing candidates and parties to prioritize consumer-centric policies.

BC Removing Nicotine Pouches From Corner Stores Is Harm Reduction Hypocrisy

Victoria, BC – Today BC’s Health Minister announced that nicotine pouches will no longer be legally sold at convenience stores in the province. The Consumer Choice Center’s Toronto based North American Affairs Manager David Clement responded “Removing a tool for smokers to quit, from the place they buy cigarettes, is a huge step backwards. It’s nothing more than harm reduction hypocrisy”. 

“For a province that has fully embraced harm reduction, the move flies in the face of other harm reduction campaigns. It is counterproductive to remove nicotine pouches from convenience stores, where smokers buy cigarettes. Having lower risk products sold alongside cigarettes acts as a reminder that there are useful tools to help smokers quit smoking entirely, ” said Clement.

“And these nicotine pouches are significantly less risky than smoking. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) published a comprehensive review on nicotine pouches, and the results are pretty eye opening. On a harm scale, with 100 representing the risk from smoking, and 0 representing not consuming any product with nicotine, the BfR gave nicotine pouches a score of 1,” said Clement

“Having cigarettes sold at convenience stores, and removing reduced risk pouches, is a wild departure from the principles of harm reduction that should be reversed.” said Clement.

Proposal on Restricting Vaping Spaces Harms Scottish Vapers

London (UK), 9 February 2024 – The Consumer Choice Center (CCC) is worried about tobacco harm reduction methods being impeded on by the latest proposal of the Scottish Conservative Party to ban vaping in enclosed public spaces.

In a statement, Mr Mike Salem, the UK Country Associate for CCC expressed concern about the proposal. He stated: “Adding hurdles to vaping will only serve to revert those who are trying to quit smoking right back into it.”

Salem further criticised the statement made by Dr Sandesh Gulhane, the shadow health secretary of the Scottish Conservatives when the latter expressed concern regarding the lack of “solid evidence about the health effects [of vaping].” Salem’s response is: “the evidence is pretty clear and statistically significant on the matter; vaping is far less harmful than smoking, and to limit its usage will reduce health prospects of smokers who are trying to quit. If Dr Gulhane has any doubts about that he should check NHS Scotland’s website”. 

The CCC is surprised that such a misinformed claim about vaping is being made by a potential future Scottish health secretary. Public Health England shows that e-cigarettes are 95% less harmful than tobacco. As such, the CCC champions vaping as an effective method for reducing tobacco harm and calls on the Scottish Conservative Party to reconsider its position on the matter.

Raising the Minimum Unit Price on Alcohol is Harmful for Everyone

London (UK), 7 February 2024 -The Consumer Choice Center (CCC), a global advocacy group championing individual freedom and consumer choice, is alarmed by the latest plan of the Scottish Government to raise the minimum pricing on alcohol by 30%. It is not a sensible economic measure, and the policy will not improve overall quality of life in Scotland. 

Mike Salem, The UK Country Associate at the CCC, warns that if the Scottish Government continues to focus its attention on punitive measures that affects the entire population, it will neglect those who need genuine help. He stated, “I am quite amazed the Scottish Government is doubling down on a policy that is clearly not working”. Despite the introduction of these measures, alcohol related deaths increased by a quarter over the past three years.

Salem highlighted that there are more positive and effective mechanisms of tackling alcohol abuse without constraining the rights of consumers. He adds that “given the inelasticity of alcohol demand, higher prices will not dissuade those who ought to stop, and the Scottish Government in this process is helping the drinks industry to jack up profits by creating a price floor, which encourages these companies to continually sell alcohol in Scotland”.

As such, the CCC cautions against this new plan, which only serves to put pressure on ministers to raise the minimum unit price even higher in the future when it is shown once again to be ineffective.

The EU’s AI ACT will stifle innovation and won’t become a global standard

February 5, 2024 – On February 2, the European Union’s ambassadors green lit the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act). Next week, the Internal Market and Civil Liberties committees will decide its fate, while the European Parliament is expected to cast their vote in plenary session either in March or April. 

The European Commission addressed a plethora of criticism on the AI Act’s potential to stifle innovation in the EU by presenting an AI Innovation package for startups and SMEs. It includes EU’s investment in supercomputers, statements on Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programs investing up to €4 billion until 2027, establishment of a new coordination body – AI Office – within the European Commission.

Egle Markeviciute, Head of Digital and Innovation Policies at the Consumer Choice Center, responds:

“Innovation requires not only good science, business and science cooperation, talent, regulatory predictability, access to finance, but one of the most motivating and special elements – room and tolerance for experimentation and risk. The AI Act is likely to stifle the private sector’s ability to innovate by moving their focus to extensive compliance lists and allowing only ‘controlled innovation’ via regulatory sandboxes which allow experimentation in a vacuum for up to 6 months,” said Markeviciute. 

“Controlled innovation produces controlled results – or lack thereof. It seems that instead of leaving regulatory space for innovation, the EU once again focuses on compensating this loss in monetary form. There will never be enough money to compensate for freedom to act and freedom to innovate,” she added.

“The European Union’s AI Act will be considered a success only if it becomes a global standard. So far, it does not seem the world is planning on following in the EU’s footsteps.”

Yaël Ossowski, deputy director of the Consumer Choice Center, adds additional context:

“Despite optimistic belief in the ‘Brussels effect’, the AI Act has not yet resonated with the world. South Korea will focus on the G7 Hiroshima process instead of the AI Act. Singapore, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom have openly expressed concern that imperative AI regulations at this stage can stifle innovation. US President Biden issued an AI Executive Order on the use of AI back in October of 2023, yet the US approach seems to be less restrictive and relies upon federal agency rules,” said Ossowski.

“Even China – a champion of state involvement in both individual and business practices is yet to finalize its AI Law in 2024 and is unlikely to be strict with AI companies compliance due to their ambition in terms of global AI race. In this context, we have to acknowledge that the EU has to adhere to already existing frameworks for AI regulation, not the other way around,” concluded Ossowski.

The CCC represents consumers in over 100 countries across the globe. We closely monitor regulatory trends in Ottawa, Washington, Brussels, Geneva, Lima, Brasilia, and other hotspots of regulation and inform and activate consumers to fight for #ConsumerChoice. Learn more at consumerchoicecenter.org.

Banning foreign workers from residential areas will cause isolation and prevent social cohesion

KUALA LUMPUR, 31st January 2024 – The Consumer Choice Center expresses its deep concern regarding the recent policy implemented by the Negeri Sembilan State Government, which restricts foreign workers from residing in residential may inadvertently lead to isolation and hinder social cohesion within communities, which goes against the principles of inclusivity and diversity that make our societies vibrant and dynamic.

Representative of the Malaysian Consumer Choice Center, Tarmizi Anuwar stated, “Banning foreign workers from residential areas may lead to isolation and hinder social cohesion within communities. Diversity is a key component of vibrant and thriving societies, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Exclusionary policies can create divisions, fostering a sense of “us versus them” that may result in social tensions.”

Furthermore, this policy could result in increased expenditures for migrant workers, as living in commercial zones tends to be more expensive. This financial burden may disproportionately affect the well-being of foreign workers and their ability to contribute positively to the local economy.

“The restriction of foreign workers to commercial zones may increase their living expenses, creating an additional financial strain that could negatively impact their overall quality of life.”

Additionally, such policies may have economic repercussions especially to the local businesses. Migrant workers contribute to local economies through their consumption patterns. Restricting their access to residential areas may limit their participation in local businesses, affecting the economic dynamics of the area. 

“Restricting foreign workers from residential areas not only jeopardizes social cohesion but also poses significant economic risks. Migrant workers play a vital role in local economies, contributing through their consumption patterns. By limiting their access to communities, we risk hindering their participation in local businesses, thereby impacting the economic dynamics of the area. Embracing diversity and inclusivity not only fosters social harmony but also bolsters economic prosperity for all.”

Instead of outright bans, the focus should be on promoting diverse housing options, taking inspiration from successful models such as those implemented in Singapore. By encouraging mixed-use developments, we can create vibrant neighborhoods that accommodate the needs of both residents and foreign workers.

“Emulating successful housing models like Singapore’s, which promote inclusivity and diversity, can lead to the development of vibrant communities where everyone has a place to call home.” he concluded.

Rishi’s Vape Ban: Last Nail in the Coffin of UK’s Harm Reduction Leadership

London, January 29th, 2024 – The Consumer Choice Center (CCC), a global advocacy group championing individual freedom and consumer choice, criticises the UK government’s latest announcement to introduce bans on disposable vapes, limit vaping flavours, and ban tobacco products for everyone born on or after January 1st, 2009.

Fred Roeder, Managing Director of the Consumer Choice Center, warns that the UK will lose its global leadership in cutting smoking rates thanks to smart regulations. Roeder stated, “For over a decade now, the UK’s approach was the global gold standard on combatting smoking rates – Rishi’s giga ban package will be the last nail in the coffin of the UK’s harm reduction leadership.”

Roeder continues, “Smoking rates are already at historic lows. This shows that previous policies have worked. Stricter enforcement of age restrictions at the point of sale is a good idea. However, banning entire categories of innovative products is going exactly in the wrong direction. As a former smoker who was able to quit thanks to vaping, I can only say that the planned ban on disposables will make it harder for people to quit. 5% of UK adults currently use disposable vapes – Do we really want to risk that many of them pick up smoking again?”

The Consumer Choice Center highlights on its campaign website www.no2prohibition.uk the issues with Rishi’s generational ban and vape restrictions.

Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone will increase market access and choice for consumers

KUALA LUMPUR, 11th January 2024 – The Consumer Choice Center believes that the agreement to establish the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone will contribute to creating a better environment for consumers in both Malaysia and Singapore, especially in terms of access to the markets and consumer choices. 

Representative of the Malaysian Consumer Choice Center, Tarmizi Anuwar stated, “The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and Singapore to establish the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is able to attract more foreign investment, increase economic development and promote international trade between Malaysia and Singapore.”

“Typically, special economic zones will focus on export-oriented activities where businesses will produce goods and services for the international market between Malaysia and Singapore. Indirectly, this will facilitate the flow of goods and services between the two countries. As entrepreneurs access more opportunities, this then provides consumers with a wider variety of options.”

One of the proposals that will be implemented is to introduce passport-free travel by using a QR code at land checkpoints. Commenting on this, Tarmizi opined, “Eliminating the need for a passport makes travel easier for consumers and encourages tourism between countries. Movement and tourism will contribute significantly to the local economy such as spending on accommodation, meals, transport and various goods and services.”

“In addition, the QR code release system on both sides will facilitate the travel process and be very beneficial for business professionals involved in cross-border activities. The QR code system promotes smoother and faster entry, facilitates business operations and fosters international trade and cooperation.

The implementation of a passport-free QR code clearance system between Malaysia and Singapore also has the potential to catalyze significant growth in the technology and innovation sectors.

“This policy will also greatly benefit entrepreneurs and startups in the technology sector with easier access to markets and resources in both countries. This can lead to the growth of cross-border startup hubs and innovation and create a more interconnected and sustainable startup ecosystem. In addition, companies and research institutions can share progress more easily, fostering an environment where technological innovations can be adopted and used quickly,” he concluded. 

Consumer groups celebrate Malaysia follows in the footsteps of New Zealand scraps generational ban

KUALA LUMPUR, 24th November 2023 – The Consumer Choice Center (CCC) has applauded the recent cabinet decision by the Malaysian government to overturn the planned generational endgame. This important step, as mentioned by the Attorney General that it is against the principle of equality of law in the Federal Constitution, is seen as a victory for choice and intelligent policymaking.

Representative of the Malaysian Consumer Choice Center, Tarmizi Anuwar hailed the decision as a step towards recognising the importance of individual freedom and the potential negative consequences of a generational ban on smoking. Tarmizi stated, “We commend the government’s commitment to choice and sensible policy. Banning an entire generation from accessing legal products is not only paternalistic but can lead to unintended consequences such as illicit trade and exposing consumers to unregulated product risks.”

This decision is in line with recent developments in New Zealand, where plans for a generation ban are also to be abandoned by the new government. Tarmizi commented, “The global trend is shifting towards recognizing that individuals should have the autonomy to make choices for themselves. Malaysia should uphold this decision and continue to consistently move towards policies that empower consumers rather than restrict them.”

In addition, Tarmizi emphasized that the government needs to immediately regulate vaping to ensure the safety of consumers and avoid misunderstandings or myths about this harm reduction product.

“The government needs to immediately introduce smart laws to regulate vaping to ensure the safety of users can be guaranteed and minors protected. The absence of this law exposes consumers to the risk of products that do not meet health regulations on the market.”

“This absence also causes the public to not get accurate information about vaping which is 95 percent safer than cigarettes and able to be the most important alternative to effectively reduce smokers in Malaysia.”

Previously, Malaysia often referred to New Zealand as an example country to implement the generational endgame, but today New Zealand itself has decided to scrap the law. Hence, the Consumer Choice Center encourages the Malaysian government to consider evidence-based and consumer-centric policies that respect individual freedoms and evidence.

Court Ruling On Plastic Is A Win For Consumers And The Environment

Ottawa, ON – Yesterday, a federal court ruled that Ottawa overstepped in designating all “manufactured plastic items” as toxic under CEPA, which puts Ottawa’s single-use plastics ban in question.

David Clement, Toronto based North American Affairs Manager for the Consumer Choice Center (CCC), responded stating: “The court ruling is a huge win for consumers, and for the environment. The federal government using CEPA to regulate plastics, and following that up with a single-use ban, was the laziest route they could take in dealing with the issue of plastic waste.”

“Unravelling the single-use plastic ban would be a win for consumers because the alternatives are more expensive. According to Ottawa’s own analysis, paper bags are 2.6 times more expensive than plastic bags. Single-use cutlery made of wood is 2.25 times more expensive than plastic cutlery, while paper straw alternatives are three times more expensive,” said Clement.

“And the ban on these single-use items was also bad for the environment, because it pushed consumers to alternatives that are worse in terms of environmental impact. According to Denmark’s environment ministry, paper bags would each need to be re-used 43 times to bring their per-use impact on the environment down to the per-use impact of the single-use plastic bags. When the alternative option is a cotton bag, that number skyrockets to 7,100 uses. A consumer substituting a cotton bag for plastic would need 136 years of weekly grocery store trips to be as environmentally friendly as single-use plastic is,” said Clement

Previously, the Consumer Choice Center has voiced our concerns with Ottawa’s plastic ban in the Financial Post, Le Journal de Montreal, and the Toronto Sun

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