NASSAU, BAHAMAS- The Consumer Protection Commission’s (CPC) Executive Chairman, Senator Randy Rolle, is sounding the alarm on systemic inequalities in Family Island commerce, declaring that “fairness isn’t a Nassau luxury — it’s a Bahamian right,” as he pledged bold action to level the playing field for underserved communities.
Speaking at the 17th Annual Andros Business Outlook, Rolle said the Commission is intensifying efforts to address inflated prices, poor infrastructure, and a lack of essential services that continue to disadvantage Family Island consumers. “Resilience doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence,” Rolle told attendees. “This is not just an Andros issue — it’s a national opportunity.”
Rolle characterized Andros as a “sleeping giant” whose vast resources and close-knit communities offer untapped potential for sustainable economic growth. But, he said, that potential is being held back by persistent service gaps — from non-functioning ATMs to limited digital access and high freight costs. “The roads feel like obstacle courses. The ATMs are more myth than machine,” Rolle said. “These aren’t minor inconveniences—they’re barriers to fairness, mobility, and opportunity.”
Rolle emphasized that the CPC’s mandate goes beyond monitoring — it is about shaping an inclusive economy where consumers in every corner of the country can access quality goods, transparent pricing, and real customer service. He noted that the Commission is actively monitoring supply chains to ensure product quality, advocating for freight pricing reform, engaging directly with small businesses to encourage fair pricing and proper labeling, and pushing for improved access to digital and financial services in Family Islands. “We know in reality — ‘digital banking’ doesn’t mean much when the power’s off and your phone has one bar of signal,” Rolle quipped. “That’s why we’re also pushing for physical solutions—more ATMs, mobile banking units, and real customer service options.”
He said the government’s Business Development Incentives Program Act will open new doors for local investment across the Family Islands, including retail operations, vacation rental developments, and agriculture ventures. Rolle identified agriculture as one of the greatest growth areas for Andros, calling for policies that link local food production with national food security and affordability. “With its vast land and rich natural resources, Andros could very well become the center of the country’s consumer market,” he said.
While stressing the Commission’s role in promoting fair business practices, Rolle also issued a clear warning: “Whether it’s hidden fees, poor customer service, or questionable refund policies—we are watching, and we are acting.” He reported that consumers in Andros received just under $8,000 in refunds last year, a figure expected to grow as public awareness of consumer rights improves. “To the business owners: your role is critical. Treat customers with honesty and respect—because trust is good for business,” he said.
Rolle said Andros is seeing tangible investments in infrastructure, training, and economic stimulation—developments that must be accompanied by accountability and fairness in the marketplace. “We’re not just in Nassau—we are boots-on-the-ground, ears-open, sleeves-rolled-up, ready to work with you and fight for you,” he said.
