As a consumer in Macedonia, you have a number of rights that are protected by the Consumer Protection Law. Knowing these rights allows you to protect your interests and be an informed buyer.
This guide will help you understand basic consumer rights, the complaint procedure and ways you can protect yourself from unfair business practices.
Basic consumer rights
As a consumer, you have the right to quality products and services that correspond to what was agreed. The product or service must be suitable for the purpose for which it is normally used, correspond to the description given by the seller and have the quality and functionality that is usual for that kind of product.
You have the right to clear and accurate information about the product or service before you buy it. This includes information on price, features, how to use, hazards, composition and all other essential data. The information must be given in the Macedonian language and in a way that is easy to understand.
You also have the right to health and safety protection. Products sold on the market must be safe to use and not pose a danger to your health or safety. If the product is dangerous, you have the right to legal protection and compensation.
Complaints and returns of products
If the product has a defect, you have the right to file a complaint. A defect exists when the product does not have the properties that are common for that type of product, does not correspond to the given description or is not suitable for the specific purpose for which you purchased it.
The complaint can be submitted within two years from the day of purchase of the product. In a complaint, you can ask for the product to be repaired, replaced with a new one, get a price reduction or get your money back - the choice is yours, unless your choice is impossible or disproportionately expensive for the seller.
It is important to keep the receipt or other proof of purchase, as you will need it when filing a claim. The seller is obliged to act on your complaint within 15 days. If the seller does not act or you are not satisfied with the solution, you can contact the Commission for the Protection of Consumer Rights.
Online shopping and right of cancellation
When buying online or at a distance, you have special rights. Before the purchase, the seller must provide you with detailed information about the product, total price, payment method, delivery and delivery time.
The most important right when buying online is the right to cancel. You have the right to cancel the contract without giving a reason within 14 days from the day of receipt of the product. To exercise this right, you must notify the seller in writing and return the product.
The seller is obliged to return the money to you within 14 days from the day of receipt of your notice of cancellation. The right of cancellation does not apply to all products - for example, contracts cannot be canceled for products that have been manufactured to your specifications, for perishable goods or for sealed products that cannot be returned for health reasons.
Knowing your rights as a consumer is important for protection against unfair practices and for obtaining quality products and services. Do not hesitate to exercise your rights and seek legal protection when necessary.
If you have a problem with a product or service and the seller does not want to act on your complaint, contact the Commission for the Protection of Consumer Rights or consult a lawyer.
