India to Chair UNCTAD’s 9th Session of Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Consumer Protection in Geneva

India will chair the Ninth Session of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 6 to 8, 2026. The session is organised by the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and brings together member states, international organisations, consumer protection authorities, academia, and other stakeholders. India's Department of Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare will chair the three-day session.

Key Highlights of the Latest 9th UNCTAD Consumer Protection Meeting Geneva 2026

India's Department of Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare will preside over deliberations and guide discussions among member states on global consumer protection priorities.

1. One of the biggest moments of the session will be the formal launch of the United Nations Principles for Consumer Product Safety, adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2025. 
2. India will also participate in a high-level fireside chat titled "Why the Principles Matter," focusing on the significance of this newly adopted global framework.
3. Discussions across the three days will cover the implementation of the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection. 
4. Discussion over consumer information and education, sustainable consumption, cross-border enforcement, and capacity-building initiatives.
5. Delegates will also conduct a voluntary peer review of Argentina's consumer protection law.

India's Consumer Protection Initiatives on the Global Stage

The National Consumer Helpline has resolved over 1.47 lakh refund-related grievances in 14 months, facilitating refunds worth more than ₹91.77 crore across 36 sectors — all before cases reached litigation.

India also showcased its e-Jagriti platform, an AI-enabled system allowing consumers to file complaints, attend virtual hearings, and manage cases digitally. NRIs and overseas consumers can also access it, making cross-border dispute resolution a practical reality rather than just policy language.