Government warns consumers to be vigilant amid back-to-school rush

THE Ministry of Industry and Commerce has advised consumers to be wary of the abundance of counterfeit and smuggled goods flooding the market during the back-to-school shopping season.

Government officials and industry leaders are alarmed by the detrimental effects that substandard merchandise and rampant smuggling have had on the country’s economy.

An investigation by the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) uncovered an unsettling prevalence of smuggled goods in both formal and informal markets.

The ministry has cautioned consumers to stay alert for counterfeit products, especially when purchasing back-to-school supplies.

“Consumers are advised to exercise due care when purchasing products, particularly as they prepare for the back-to-school period,” the Ministry of Industry and Commerce said in a statement.

A recent report by the CPC has exposed the alarming truth about counterfeit and substandard products flooding the Zimbabwe market.

From streets and tuck shops to supermarkets, these fake goods pose significant risks to public health and the economy.

Reports over the past few months have revealed a staggering array of counterfeit products, including food, alcohol, drugs, toothpaste and other essential items. The primary culprits behind this influx are porous borders and the high demand for cheaper alternatives.

In response to this growing threat, the Government has established a multi-agency task force, led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, to combat smuggling and the trade in counterfeit products.

The task force comprises the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the police, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) and CPC.

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)

As part of its operations, the task force has launched door-to-door crackdowns to confiscate smuggled goods.

Individuals found in possession of smuggled items now face imprisonment without the option of bail. The Government’s efforts aim to protect consumers and safeguard the economy, which is estimated to lose up to US$1 billion annually due to smuggling.

To avoid purchasing fake or substandard goods, consumers are urged to pay close attention to expiry dates, packaging, labelling and weight.

The ministry also encouraged the public to report any illegal or unfair business practices and support locally produced goods.

“Counterfeit and smuggled goods are a threat to public health and undermine local industries. Consumers must remain vigilant to help combat this menace,” the ministry said.-chronicle