1. What is the difference between an “Adherent” and a “Certified Shop”?
“Adherent” is a scheme set up under the Macao Consumer Mediation and Arbitration Centre, with the aim to protect the rights and interests of consumers, “Adherents” are obliged to resolve consumer disputes through arbitration at the Centre (the claims involved do not exceed the statutory value of appeal interest of the Court of First Instance, i.e. MOP100,000), thus giving confidence to consumers.
“Certified Shop” is an award given to “Adherents” by the Macao Consumer Council. “Adherents” that meet the requirements of becoming “Certified Shops” and pass the evaluation for the entitlement will be awarded the emblem of “Certified Shop”.
2. What is the requirement to become an “Adherent”?
Any retail business that operates legitimately in Macao and agrees to submit and resolve consumer disputes (the claims involved do not exceed the statutory value of appeal interest of the Court of First Instance, i.e. MOP100,000) at the Macao Consumer Mediation and Arbitration Centre may apply to become an “Adherent”.
3. Is the “Adherent” qualification being renewed every year?
There is no need to renew the qualification.
4. How can an “Adherent” update its information?
A. Log in and update online;B. Complete the “Shop details form” (form A4) with company stamp, e-mail to certshop@consumer.gov.mo or submit in person at service locations of the Consumer Council.
5. If a “Certified Shop” is suspended from being entitled to the emblem, does it mean it has opted out from the “Adherent” scheme?
Being suspended from being entitled to the “Certified Shop” emblem does not mean the business has opted out from the “Adherent” scheme.