Consumer protection policy nears finality: Minister
THE Industry and Commerce is finalising the National Consumer Protection Policy, a comprehensive blueprint meant to advance consumer rights and foster a fair marketplace, a Cabinet Minister said.
The policy builds upon the Consumer Protection Act, gazetted in 2019 and represents a significant step towards safeguarding Zimbabwean consumers from growing unethical and unfair business practices.The Act also provides for the establishment of the Consumer Protection Commission, which is already in place.
Over the years, consumers have faced various challenges that include substandard goods and services and misleading marketing information. Previously, consumers suffered unjust treatment at the hands of traders or service providers due to limited knowledge about their rights and available recourse while inadequate consumer protection legislation did not help matters.
The new consumer policy will address the issues, providing a robust framework for consumer protection and consumer rights enforcement.
Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said this in a speech he delivered during the World Consumer Rights Day commemorations in Harare on Monday.
“The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is currently in the final stages of developing a comprehensive national consumer protection policy that seeks to advance the current interests of the consumer through the enforcement of consumer rights.
“In this regard, the Consumer Protection Policy seeks to separate consumers from unfair and unethical business practices.
“In other words, business malpractices that we all get access to these days. The policy will not only protect consumers but also hold businesses accountable for their actions.
“It aims to promote consumer welfare by ensuring that businesses are responsible for any malpractices.
“This proactive approach signifies a paradigm shift towards a more transparent and equitable market,” he said.
The Minister said the policy would serve as the cornerstone for Government efforts to enhance consumer rights and create a more profitable marketplace.
“We are dedicated to establishing a framework that addresses the diverse needs of consumers, that fosters competition, and that promotes innovation,” Minister Ndlovu said.
The ministry acknowledges the crucial role played by various sector regulators in ensuring consumer protection.
The minister said organisations such as the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, Environmental Management Agency, and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa had been instrumental in upholding high standards and enforcing regulations.
Minister Ndlovu said success in protecting consumer rights would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of the various sector regulators.
“These organisations have all played a crucial role in ensuring that consumers are treated with fairness and with the respect they deserve,” the minister stated.
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