A consumer is a person or group who purchases or uses goods, products, or services primarily for personal, social, family, or household needs, rather than for business or resale purposes

. The consumer is the end-user of a product or service, which distinguishes them from a customer, who may be the purchaser but not necessarily the user (for example, a parent buying toys for a child-the parent is the customer, the child is the consumer)

. Consumers have specific rights designed to protect them, including the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to seek redressal, and the right to representation in consumer courts

. These rights ensure consumers are protected from hazardous products, misleading information, unfair trade practices, and exploitation. In economic terms, consumers drive demand, influencing production and business success, and play a vital role in the economy by supporting growth and sustainability through their purchasing choices

. In summary, a consumer is the final user of a product or service, acting outside of commercial or professional contexts, whose purchasing and usage decisions have significant economic and social implications