Natia Turnava, Governor of the National Bank of Georgia (NBG), participated in the high-level International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) conference titled "Building Trust in the Digital Era," organized by the Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency.

According to Natia Turnava, consumer rights protection is a primary objective of the National Bank of Georgia. A financially resilient and well-protected consumer serves as an essential foundation for the health and stability of the financial sector.

"Over recent years, both the standards of consumer rights protection and the level of financial literacy have advanced across the financial sector. This is evidenced, among other factors, by the trend in consumer appeals submitted to the NBG," noted the NBG Governor.

Natia Turnava highlighted the challenges brought about by rapid digital transformation, emphasizing that establishing additional protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups of the population is of critical importance.

The NBG Governor also underscored the significance of financial education, noting that keeping consumers informed about prevailing risks is an integral component of consumer protection policy.

She stated that the NBG actively works to advance financial literacy. To this end, the second edition of the National Strategy for Financial Education has been developed, and the educational platform "Finedu" has been operating for over five years, dedicated to providing citizens with clear, objective, and non-commercial financial information in an accessible format.

"Our approach is built upon a fundamental principle: consumers require protection before making a decision. When consumers properly assess risks, it mitigates both potential personal losses and systemic risks," stated Natia Turnava.

Notably, the Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency serves as the presidency of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) for the 2026–2027 term. Dedicated to enhancing consumer trust, safeguarding consumer rights, and sharing international expertise on current challenges in the digital era, the three-day conference focuses on pressing issues in consumer protection and aims to establish harmonized approaches and standards. The event is attended by approximately 100 delegates from 55 countries, including heads of consumer protection authorities.

The opening ceremony brought together representatives from the Government of Georgia, the Parliament, Tbilisi City Hall, international organizations, and competition and consumer protection authorities from various nations.