GNBS URGES SMART SHOPPING FOR HOUSEHOLD/ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Dec 07, 2025 Features / Columnists, GNBS, News

GNBS IN FOCUS

(Kaieteur News) – The holiday shopping season is at its peak, with irresistible deals and flashy discounts, making it easy to get swept up in the excitement of saving. But beneath the sparkle of seasonal sales, consumers must be reminded that choosing long-lasting and suitable items is just as important as finding the best bargain. Many people are inclined to replace their electrical and electronic appliances, or purchase them as gifts for Christmas, and, in doing so, it is critical to prioritise quality and safety to ensure the joy of the holidays isn’t overshadowed by faulty products or unexpected hazards.

Electrical and electronic appliances are among the seventeen (17) categories of products monitored by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). Monitoring is conducted in accordance with the National Standard Specification for Labelling of Commodities – Part 7, which outlines the labelling requirements for Electrical Equipment, Fittings, and Household Electrical Appliances.

The standard mandates that every appliance must clearly display essential information, including the country of origin, manufacturer’s name, trademark or identification number, rated voltage, frequency, power or current, model and serial numbers, and the certification mark. Shoppers are also encouraged to check for warranties or return policies before making a purchase.

These details are crucial not only for identifying the product’s source but also for ensuring access to after-sales service or redress should any issues arise.

During this busy shopping season, the Product Compliance Department of the GNBS has increased surveillance activities to ensure that products on the market meet quality and safety requirements. These products include electrical appliances such as refrigerators, electric stoves and cookers, televisions, blenders, microwaves, food processors, toasters, and fans, among others.

To enable effective monitoring at ports of entry, importers’ bonds or warehouses, and sales outlets, importers and local manufacturers of electrical and electronic appliances are required to register with the GNBS annually. Dealers, meanwhile, require a permit to sell. This permit must be displayed at the business premises and visible to customers visiting the sales outlets.

The GNBS advises consumers to look for the Permit to Sell certificate, which is required for various products, including electrical appliances. The certificate confirms that the business is registered with the GNBS and has undergone the necessary inspections.

Appliances that carry recognised certification marks such as UL, CE, CSA, or NOM indicate that the product has been tested and meets acceptable safety standards. If these marks are absent, the GNBS requires importers and dealers to present test certificates from independent, accredited third-party laboratories. Visibly damaged or defective items are also removed from shelves.

As the Christmas shopping frenzy grows, the GNBS is urging consumers to take a moment to inspect electrical and household appliances and to test them carefully before purchasing during the holiday period. Further, ensure receipts and warranties are collected for future redress if necessary. This season, let your smartest purchase be peace of mind.

To purchase a copy of this labelling standard or learn more about this topic, contact the GNBS on 219-0064-66 or WhatsApp: 692-4627.

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ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES, GNBS, household, SMART SHOPPING

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