San Juan — The Puerto Rico Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO) launched Thursday a sweeping compliance operation covering more than 400 businesses across the island as the 2026 hurricane season officially gets underway.
“The purpose of this operation is to maintain active surveillance throughout Puerto Rico to ensure consumers have access to clear and accurate information about the products they need to prepare for any emergency,” said DACO Secretary Hiram Torres Montalvo.
Through June 6, inspectors from the agency’s five regional offices will visit supermarkets, hardware stores, pharmacies, department stores, gas stations, and specialty emergency supply retailers. Teams will verify compliance with applicable laws and regulations, product availability, labeling requirements, and pricing behavior on emergency-related goods.
Items under monitoring include bottled water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, electric generators, propane gas, portable coolers, building materials, fuel containers, portable radios, first aid supplies, and cleaning products.
Torres Montalvo noted that no price freeze order is currently in effect, but said the agency will keep a close watch on market behavior. Inspection teams will document findings, advise merchants on their legal obligations, and address situations requiring immediate intervention.
“We want to send a clear message to both consumers and businesses: DACO is on the ground, inspecting and advising. Our commitment is to ensure transparent markets, protect consumer rights, and make sure businesses operate within the law,” Torres Montalvo added.
Consumers are encouraged to request proof of purchase, review store policies before completing transactions, and report irregularities or deceptive practices through DACO’s official channels.