Cayman: Truth in Advertising Rules

From OfReg

URCO’s CEO Mr Sonji Myles
URCO Launches Second Public Consultation on Proposed Truth In Advertising Rules
The Utility Regulation and Competition Office (“URCO or the “Office”) today announced the launch of
its second public consultation on the Draft Determination for the proposed Truth in Advertising
Rules, aimed at promoting transparent and accurate marketing communications across the Electricity,
Fuels, ICT, and Water sectors in the Cayman Islands.
The proposed Rules represent a significant milestone in consumer protection, seeking to ensure that
all advertising by Authorisation Holders is truthful, substantiated, and not misleading or deceptive.
These Rules are intended to replace the former Information and Communication Technology
Authority’s Truth in Advertising Guidelines, creating a unified, enforceable framework applicable to all
sectors under URCO’s jurisdiction.
Key Enhancements in the Proposed Rules:
- Clear requirements for substantiation, pricing statements, endorsements, testimonials, and
after-sales service. - Inclusion of digital and internet-based marketing communications, such as social media and
SMS advertising. - Mandatory disclosures for comparative claims and promotions using terms like “unlimited” or
“free.” - Specific remedies and enforcement measures for breaches, including administrative fines,
public reprimands, and cease and desist orders. - Accessibility requirements to ensure marketing materials are usable by persons with
disabilities.
Following an earlier consultation initiated in 2019, URCO reviewed stakeholder feedback from major
sectoral providers including Logic, Flow, Digicel, and Water Authority Cayman, as well as a private
citizen. While supportive overall, respondents highlighted areas such as fairness, enforceability, and
definitions requiring clarification. These were addressed in the revised Proposed Rules.
URCO’s CEO Mr. Sonji Myles commented:
“Protecting consumers is central to our mission. The revised Truth in Advertising Rules will be a critical
regulatory tool to ensure fair and transparent commercial practices across all regulated utility sectors.
We invite all stakeholders to participate in this consultation and help shape a regulatory framework
that reflects the public interest.”
The consultation is now open to all stakeholders and members of the public. Comments must be
submitted by 5:00 PM on 21 August 2025.
Further Information:
The full consultation document and proposed Rules are available on URCO’s website at www.ofreg.ky. Parties submitting comments confidentially must also submit a redacted publicversion with reasons for confidentiality as outlined in section 107 of the URC Act.





