Harare, (New Ziana) – Government will strengthen coordination mechanisms among key institutions as it intensifies interventions to combat counterfeit products flooding local markets.
In the same vein, quality control, product certification, and standards enforcement will also be strengthened through collaboration with the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) to ensure locally produced materials meet national and regional specifications.
According to the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS-2) policy, which was launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week, its interventions will target counterfeit products, which are undermining legitimate business operations and inflicting significant damage on financial health, brand reputation, and customer trust.
“The surge of counterfeit products that come to the market well packaged and cheaper to unsuspecting buyers is flooding Zimbabwe`s markets, posing challenges and risks that demand expeditious interventions. Counterfeits often leave customers complaining about the performance of such goods, most of which are sub-standard. Challenges posed by counterfeits extend into regional export markets, undermining Brand Zimbabwe.
“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. The 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 (CCZ), the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC), the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ), the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and other regulatory bodies, will be strengthened to ensure information sharing, joint operations and prosecution of offenders,” the document reads in part.
It also highlights that 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 marketplace.
“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 substandard 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,” it states.
New Ziana
