NICARAGUA: IMPORT SAFETY DIALOGUE

UNCLAS MANAGUA 001980 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS STATE FOR EEB/TPP/ABT USDOC FOR 4332/ITA/MAC/WH/MSIEGELMAN 3134/ITA/USFCS/OIO/WH/MKESHISHIAN/BARTHUR E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETRD ECON PREL NU SUBJECT: NICARAGUA: IMPORT SAFETY DIALOGUE REF: STATE 114788 ¶1. (SBU) On August 20, Econoff delivered reftel talking points to Julio Cesar Bendana, Director for Competition and Regulatory Efficiency at the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Development. Bendana expressed interest in establishing a dialogue on product safety (imported and domestic goods). He explained that the Ministry of Health (MINSA) takes the lead in evaluating product safety, while the Nicaraguan Consumer Protection Agency, which Bendana oversees, has the authority to remove dangerous goods from commerce. The Nicaraguan Customs Services Administration takes the lead on border controls, in coordination with MINSA. [Note: Customs officials have not returned Econoff calls on this subject. End Note.] Bendana acknowledged that local resources to evaluate product safety are limited and that participating in dialogue with U.S. authorities on this issue would strengthen his government's efforts to protect consumers. During the past twelve months, Nicaragua has experienced problems with counterfeit medicines, methanol sold as liquor, and toxic toothpaste. TRIVELLI