Consumers concerned over prices

Takudzwa Mahari
CONSUMER Protection Commission (CPC) chairman, Dr Mthokozisi Nkosi, has raised concern over retailers who are charging prices in United States dollars only.

He feels customers should be given a choice of using both currencies.

Dr Nkosi said since both the Zimbabwean and United States dollars are legal tenders, retailers should allow consumers to use the currency they are comfortable with.

“Retailers should charge their products in both US dollars and our currency to make sure that everyone has access to basic products irrespective of the type of salary they are receiving.

“We are all aware that the Government has given us the greenlight on the use of the US dollar but retailers should not punish the consumers because very few are receiving salaries in the form of US dollars.

“Of course, we have asked some of the retailers about the issue and they say that it’s because their suppliers are demanding their payment in US dollars only.

“So, we need to interrogate where these suppliers are getting their forex and, if they are getting it at the auction rate, there is no excuse for them to do that.

“They should allow consumers a choice about which currency they are comfortable with since not everyone is getting US dollars in terms of salaries and allowances.

“We need to do an investigation into the supply chain to find out why they are insisting on US dollars only then will look for an instrument that will make it a punishable offence to refuse other payments,” he added.

Meanwhile, consumers in different retail outlets express mixed sentiments over the goods being sold in US dollars.

A customer, who identified himself as Panganai Juru, said:

“It’s better to purchase using forex since it’s cheaper than purchasing in our local currency as long as they ensure the availability of every product.”

Another customer, who preferred anonymity, added:

“We cannot afford to buy groceries in US dollars because we are being paid in RTGS so things will get tough for us.

“We will suffer more, at least, they should charge in both currencies to allow everyone to have access of the products they need.”