The European Football Championship has now started and football fans may choose to go to Poland and the Ukraine to watch their favourite team playing.
When visiting a foreign country we have to abide by the laws of that country. Furthermore, should we decide to buy goods while abroad, we need to keep in mind that if we have a problem with a product, it is the consumer protection laws of that country that apply.
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection in Poland, together with the All-Ukrainian Consumer’s Federation – PULSE, have created a ‘Fan’s guide’ aimed at reminding consumers about their rights and stressing differences in the systems of consumer protection in Poland and Ukraine.
Crossing borders
Since Poland is part of the European Union, EU citizens only need a valid document confirming their identity, such as an identity card.
When EU citizens need to cross to Ukraine, unlike non-EU residents, they do not need a Visa. A valid passport is enough. Upon filling in the migration document with their personal details and details of the stay, EU citizens are legally entitled to a 90-day stay in Ukraine.
This document should be kept handy till the end of the stay in case it needs to be examined.
Currencies
Before going to Poland and Ukraine visitors will need to exchange money. Both countries have their own currency. In Poland the currency is zloty and in Ukraine it is hyrvnia. Should we need to exchange currency while visiting Ukraine, our identity card and passport are necessary.
Shoppers should also be aware that payment cards are accepted in most Polish shops. However, some shops require that the purchase exceeds a certain amount to accept payment cards. On the other hand, in Ukraine most shops only accept cash.
Shopping hours
In Poland, most shops open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Saturday until 2 p.m., and on Sundays and public holidays only certain establishments are open.
Shopping centres are open seven days a week from 10 a.m till late evening. In big cities in Ukraine shops can open 24/7, 365 days a year. Certain trade centres open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays a few open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Consumer rights
If there is a problem with a product purchased, consumer law in Poland is very similar to Malta’s and that in other EU countries. If we want to change a product we have bought because we realise we have made a wrong buying decision, consumer law in Poland stipulates that the seller has no obligation to accept or replace the goods.
If the seller agrees, such exchange may be subject to certain conditions, for example, providing labels, packaging, and proof of purchase. Information about whether the retail outlet accepts returns can be obtained at check-out. If we are not given such information, then it is advisable to ask the seller before we conclude the sale.
In Ukraine, there is a 14-day cooling-off period on goods purchased. During this time, consumers are allowed to return an unused product to the shop to make an exchange. Consumers do not have to give a reason for returning the goods, but the fiscal receipt is needed.
In cases of products that are defective or not in conformity with the contract of sale, in Poland, as in the rest of the EU, consumers can complain about the product and request a remedy within two years from the date of purchase.
The remedies that may be requested are either repair or replacement, or part or full refund of the money paid.
In Ukraine it is the producer of the product who basically decides on the guarantee the product. Therefore, consumers must complain about the defective product within the time limit indicated by the producer in the warranty card.
In cases where the product purchased does not have a specific warranty period, consumers have the right to file a complaint within two years from date of purchase.
In both countries, the first person to whom we should file a complaint is the seller. The proof of purchase is an essential document when making such complaints. If complaining to the seller is not enough, consumers need to seek the help of the relevant consumer authorities.
If consumers are still in Poland when a problem crops up, they may call the consumer infoline 800 007 707, which provides free legal advice. This line is available from fixed telephony and mobile phones from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
During Euro 2012 this legal advice will also be available in English.
odette.vella@mccaa.org.mt
Ms Vella is senior information officer, Office for Consumer Affairs, Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.