Update on Consumer Protection Law in Honduras

BLP Legal,  November 13, 2024

BLP Legal - The National Congress of Honduras has approved significant reforms to the Consumer Protection Law, strengthening users’ rights across various essential services. Key provisions in this modification include:

1. Contracts Limited and in Lempiras: Contracts for telephone, internet, and cable television services are now limited to a maximum of six months and must be charged exclusively in lempiras.
2. Termination of Telephone, Internet, and Television Contracts Without Penalty: Users can cancel contracts due to service deficiencies, unauthorized changes, or unannounced price increases without penalty.
3. Prohibition of Improper Charges: Reconnection fees and any additional charges due to service suspension attributable to the service provider for telephone, internet, and television services are prohibited.
4. Discounts for Seniors: A 25% discount for seniors and a 30% discount for those of advanced age are established for telecommunications services up to 30 GB of consumption.

While the recent reform to the Consumer Protection Law in Honduras strengthens consumer rights, it also presents significant challenges for telecommunications, internet, and cable television service providers. Implementing contract limits, prohibiting certain charges, and setting new requirements for complaint management could increase operational costs and limit the commercial flexibility of these companies. These reforms suggest a scenario where providers must quickly adapt to a stricter regulatory framework, potentially impacting their profitability and the range of services available to consumers.

blplegal.com