The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) seeks to protect consumers and competition by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices through law enforcement, advocacy, and education.

The FTC is the only federal agency with both consumer protection and competition jurisdiction in broad sectors of the economy. The FTC pursues vigorous and effective law enforcement; advances consumers’ interests by sharing its expertise with federal and state legislatures and U.S. and international government agencies; develops policy and research tools through hearings, workshops, and conferences; and creates practical and plain-language educational programs for consumers and businesses in a global marketplace with constantly changing technologies. FTC’s work is performed by the Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics. That work is aided by the Office of General Counsel and seven regional offices.

In North Dakota, as in all states, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plays a critical role in protecting consumers and ensuring a competitive marketplace. The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws, preventing deceptive, unfair, and anticompetitive business practices. While the FTC operates at the federal level, its actions impact consumers and businesses in North Dakota by investigating complaints, conducting studies, and taking enforcement actions when necessary. The FTC also collaborates with state attorneys and lawmakers to align federal and state efforts in consumer protection and competition. North Dakota businesses and consumers can benefit from the FTC's educational resources and can turn to the FTC for help with issues that fall under its jurisdiction. The FTC's regional offices, although not located in North Dakota, serve the Midwest region and can address specific concerns related to the state.