Canada to assume presidency of International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network

News release

May 17, 2019 - OTTAWA, ON - Competition Bureau

The International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) announced that Canada’s Competition Bureau is designated President-Elect of the Network from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021.

This announcement came during ICPEN’s annual conference, hosted by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission of Zambia, the current ICPEN president. Canada’s presidency begins on July 1, 2020 and will follow the one-year term of Colombia’s Superintendence of Industry and Commerce. Josephine Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau’s Deceptive Marketing Practices Directorate, will act as ICPEN president.

The Bureau’s term will focus on promoting truth in advertising online and building consumer confidence in the digital economy. The Bureau will also draw upon its findings and experiences in fraud prevention, big data, and marketing practices generally in the digital economy to support its role.

The online marketplace continues to expand across borders, presenting unique challenges that can defy traditional enforcement methods. As president, the Bureau will work with all ICPEN members to find new ways to deter fraudulent and deceptive marketing practices and empower consumers worldwide with the tools they need to fight back.

Quotes

“I want to extend my gratitude to Zambia for its tremendous leadership and to wish Colombia good luck during its upcoming term. We look forward to applying our ground-breaking work in the digital economy and to working closely with our international enforcement partners from all over the world. Together, we will work to ensure consumers are protected and not misled or deceived when shopping and doing business in the borderless digital economy.”

-Josephine Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner,
Deceptive Marketing Practices Directorate, Competition Bureau

Quick facts

ICPEN is comprised of consumer protection authorities from over 60 countries.
By rotating the presidency each year, ICPEN ensures there is appropriate geographical representation and participation from the different member organisations.
ICPEN aims to protect consumers’ economic interests around the world, share information about cross-border commercial activities that may affect consumer welfare, and encourage global cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

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www.competitionbureau.gc.ca
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The Competition Bureau, as an independent law enforcement agency, ensures that Canadian businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.

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Date modified:: 2019-06-21

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