By San José, Costa Rica — As the annual Black Friday shopping event approaches, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce (MEIC) has announced a significant enforcement operation to protect consumers from misleading advertising and deceptive discounts. Officials will be deployed across the Greater Metropolitan Area on Friday, November 28, to conduct on-site inspections of both chain and independent retailers, ensuring all promotions are clear, truthful, and comply with national regulations.
The initiative aims to empower consumers by guaranteeing they have accurate information to make secure and informed purchasing decisions. In recent years, major sales events have sometimes been clouded by concerns over inflated “original” prices or ambiguous promotional terms. The MEIC’s proactive stance seeks to build market confidence and ensure that the benefits offered to shoppers are genuine and substantial.
To better understand the legal framework and consumer rights during the frenetic Black Friday shopping season, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
A promotional price for Black Friday does not in any way diminish a consumer’s legal right to a full warranty. Costa Rican regulations are explicit: all products, regardless of the discount, are covered. Retailers must honor the same guarantee as they would for a full-priced item. Any store policy claiming ‘final sale’ or ‘no returns on discounted items’ is invalid if the product is defective.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a critical point that empowers consumers, reinforcing that a promotional price never diminishes their statutory rights. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important matter.
During the nationwide sweep, properly identified MEIC officials will scrutinize several key aspects of retail offers. Their primary focus will be on price transparency. Inspectors will verify that the final price, inclusive of all taxes, is clearly displayed for every product on sale. This is a critical step in preventing hidden costs from surprising customers at the checkout counter.
Furthermore, the verification process will delve into the legitimacy of the discounts themselves. Retailers will be required to clearly indicate the previous price of an item alongside its current offer price, allowing inspectors to assess the real benefit the consumer is receiving. The operation will also confirm that advertised deals are physically available in-store and that businesses accept all standard forms of payment, such as credit and debit cards, for promotional items without imposing surcharges.
In cases where non-compliance is detected, the ministry has outlined a clear two-step enforcement process. If a violation is identified, MEIC personnel will first request that the business make an immediate correction on-site. This could involve updating price tags, clarifying signage, or correcting misleading advertisements to align with legal standards.
Should a retailer be unable or unwilling to rectify the issue immediately, the officials will formally document the infraction. This record will then be submitted to the MEIC’s Consumer Support Directorate (DAC) for further investigation and potential administrative action. This procedural rigor ensures that all businesses are held accountable and that consumer rights are systematically upheld.
This year’s Black Friday operation is not an isolated event but the culmination of a broader preparatory campaign. In the weeks leading up to the sales period, the MEIC has been actively engaging with the business community. The ministry conducted training sessions for over 50 businesses, educating them on their obligations under consumer protection laws. Additionally, a massive informational outreach saw 3,059 emails sent to retailers, reminding them of their responsibilities regarding advertising, offers, and promotions.
The MEIC also reminds the public that official channels are available for assistance and inquiries. Consumers can reach out via the 800-CONSUMO hotline (800-266-7866) or use the “PACO te Asesora” digital assistant, a chatbot available on WhatsApp at 6140-9657. These resources provide guidance and a direct line for reporting potential irregularities, empowering shoppers to be active participants in ensuring a fair marketplace.
For further information, visit meic.go.cr
About Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Comercio (MEIC):
The Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce is the Costa Rican government body responsible for formulating and executing policies related to economic development, international trade, and market regulation. A key function of the ministry is the protection of consumer rights, ensuring fair competition and transparency in the marketplace. Through its various directorates, the MEIC works to support small and medium-sized enterprises, promote innovation, and safeguard the interests of the public in commercial transactions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a pillar in the legal landscape, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative solutions for contemporary legal challenges. This forward-thinking approach is intrinsically linked to its core belief in social responsibility, manifested through a dedicated effort to demystify the law and empower the community with accessible legal understanding for a stronger, more informed society.
