General Questions
What is the purpose of the CPA?
To promote social and economic welfare of South African consumers by ensuring a fair marketplace.
What is "direct marketing" under the CPA?
Approaching a person to promote goods/services via mail, electronic communication, or in person.
Can suppliers charge different prices based on race/gender?
No, unless justified by reasonable grounds (e.g., targeted needs).
True or False:Suppliers can override CPA terms in contracts.
False (prohibited under Section 48).
Name three rights protected under the CPA.
Right to privacy, right to choose, right to fair value/good quality.
How long is the cooling-off period for direct marketing sales?
5 days to return goods
Can a supplier force a consumer to buy additional goods?
No, unless it benefits the consumer financially/efficiently.
Are women-only shoe promotions discriminatory?
No, if targeting a specific need (e.g., gendered product design).
Does the CPA apply to employment contracts?
No.
What is "bait marketing"?
Advertising goods/services as available at a specific price/place without sufficient stock.
What is an example of an "unfair term" in a contract?
A clause waiving CPA rights.
A gym contract auto-renews after 1 year. Is this allowed?
No, auto-renewal beyond the fixed term violates Section 14.
What is the threshold for juristic persons to qualify as "consumers" under the CPA?
Annual turnover below R2 million.
What must a supplier disclose under the "right to information"?
Prices, terms, and intermediaries’ roles in plain language.
What is the implied warranty under Section 56?
Goods must be defect-free, durable, and fit for purpose.
True or False: Cooling-off periods apply to all contracts.
False (only direct marketing/unsolicited goods).