Harare, (New Ziana) – The surge of counterfeit products, which come to the market well packaged and cheaper, is posing challenges and risks that demand expeditious interventions.
Counterfeits often leave customers complaining over the performance of such goods, most of which are sub-standard. Challenges posed by counterfeits extend into regional export markets, undermining Brand Zimbabwe.
NDS 2 interventions will target counterfeit products, that are now undermining legitimate business operations and inflicting significant damage on financial health, brand reputation and customer trust.
Pursuant to the above, Government will intensify, during NDS 2, the fight against counterfeit goods through a robust and Whole-of Government multi-agency strategy. This will build on and expand anti-smuggling operations, underpinned by physical inspections initiated under NDS 1 to ensure full compliance with national standards and consumer protection laws.
Government will enforce strict penalties against the manufacture, importation, distribution and sale of counterfeit products. Coordination among key institutions, including the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, the Consumer Protection Commission, the Standards Association of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other regulatory bodies, will be strengthened to ensure information sharing, joint operations and prosecution of offenders.
Furthermore, partnerships with industry players will be enhanced to trace and eliminate counterfeit supply chains, protect consumers and safeguard legitimate enterprises, thereby promoting a fair, competitive and transparent market place.
NDS 2 initiatives on consumer protection will focus on strengthening the rights of consumers and curbing illicit market practices, such as the spread of counterfeit goods. Consumer protection will also extend to embrace manufacturers of sub standard products targeting markets where consumers may be less aware or discerning.
During NDS 1, some businesses were observed to be selling counterfeit products that included food, beverages, vehicle parts and electronic gadgets, among others.
The implementation of protection of consumers under NDS 2 builds on the country’s existing legal framework established by the Consumer Protection Act of 2019. This outlines consumer rights to quality goods, safety, fair value, information and redress.
Consumer protection will focus on safeguarding consumers from deceptive, fraudulent and improper trade practices, to inculcate and build a transparent market place where both consumers and businesses comply with regulations.
Government will target the major drivers of the illicit supply chains of counterfeit goods being smuggled into the country and repackaged under fraudulent labels, with law enforcement and other agents conducting raids and crackdowns on outlets selling such goods.
Furthermore, the Consumer Protection Commission will carry out awareness campaigns to educate consumers on the effects of counterfeit products.
New Ziana
