Consumer Dispute Resolution Gets Updates

Resolutions 890/25, 892/25, and 893/25 of the Undersecretariat for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade introduced reforms regarding the structure of the Federal Single Consumer Complaints Window (VUF), the Argentine Consumer Arbitration System (SNAC), and the Customer Ombudsman. The purpose of these new measures is to enhance the speed and effectiveness in processing claims related to consumer rights.

Among the most significant changes, the VUF was established as the sole formal channel authorized to receive, process, forward, and monitor consumer claims nationwide, optimizing case management through technological tools, providing training to local authorities, and ensuring priority attention for vulnerable consumers. Participating jurisdictions will also have full access to claim-related information, and all provinces are invited to join the system.

Furthermore, it was established that all arbitration proceedings under the SNAC will be conducted by electronic means, with in-person hearings limited to exceptional cases. Suppliers may adhere to the system and obtain an official emblem they can display on their websites.

Finally, the scope of the Customer Ombudsman was expanded, allowing the role to be exercised by natural or legal persons, individually or collectively, integrated into the organizational structure of the supplier or not.