The government has initiated a crackdown on shops and supermarkets in Harare and other cities selling counterfeit, expired, and smuggled goods, amid growing concerns over the health risks these products pose to consumers. The move comes in response to a booming market for smuggled items, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, which are often priced below market rates and sold in shops and on street pavements.
Local manufacturers have voiced their frustrations over the unfair competition created by the influx of smuggled goods. Senior agricultural economist Simbarashe Masanga emphasized that these unregulated products lack the necessary testing and certification, exposing consumers to potential health hazards. “These products require permits, but they are being delivered without proper authorization,” Masanga stated, referring to recent seizures of smuggled flour from a Spar outlet at Five Avenue Shopping Centre.
The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), tasked with regulating the production and marketing of agricultural products, has been actively confiscating smuggled goods from various shops. Masanga noted that the permit requirements for importing goods are straightforward, involving simple registration and obtaining the necessary permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and related agencies. He highlighted that many products are being smuggled despite being locally available, further choking the struggling local industry.
The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) recently issued warnings against the sale of counterfeit, underweight, and smuggled products, reinforcing its role in safeguarding consumers from deceptive trade practices. In September alone, the CPC prosecuted 3,500 businesses for various violations, including selling expired products and improper packaging, which pose health risks.
Masanga indicated that shops found selling smuggled goods would face heavy fines as part of the government’s effort to restore order in the agricultural marketing sector. “We will write a seizure note for the quantities of products confiscated and issue a fine. The penalties must be punitive to ensure compliance with the law,” he said.
The government’s crackdown signals a commitment to protect local industries and consumer health, as well as to ensure fair competition in the marketplace. As inspections continue, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to the sale of counterfeit or smuggled goods.
In other news – Talent Madungwe sentenced for traffic offences
Talent Madungwe, a 38-year-old self-proclaimed prophet known as the “Heaven Army Commander” or “Heaven Defence Deputy Minister,” has been sentenced by the Epworth Magistrates’ Court for violations of the Road Traffic Act. He was found guilty of two charges: driving without a valid license and negligent driving.
The case against Madungwe arose from an incident on August 6, 2024, when he was driving his Toyota Aqua and sideswiped a Nissan NP300 single cab on a strip road next to Airport Road. Read More
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