Vongai Masuka

The government, through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has launched a nationwide crackdown on smuggled and counterfeit goods.

In a press statement the ministry announced the ongoing crackdown, issuing a warning to businesses engaging in unfair trade practices, stating that those violating the Consumer Protection Act (2019) will be prosecuted.

“A nationwide Crackdown on smuggling is underway and it involves impromptu inspections on businesses to ensure compliance with regulations.

“Offenders who exploit consumers through unfair practices including selling counterfeit goods delivering underweight goods imposing multitire pricing skills and using inadequate labelling among other deceptive dealings are being prosecuted.”

The Ministry revealed that their efforts with other government agencies, including the police and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), are aimed at creating a fair and competitive market environment.

The Ministry reports that since the crackdown began, it has been working to inform the public and businesses about the new regulations.

“The ministry is pleased to inform the public that to date a cumulative total of 3,779 businesses have been infected with 419 prosecutions finalized. A total of 405 compliance notices have been issued and 1,816 units of various substandard products with seized.

“Awareness and enforcement campaigns continue in earnest throughout the provinces until all business entities comply with the law,” the ministry revealed

The Ministry also stated that its efforts are part of a broader initiative to promote consumer protection, improve product quality and service delivery under the Zimbabwe Industrialization and Development Policy (2019-2023).