Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
The Government plans to intensify its fight against counterfeit products as part of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2) through stricter penalties, enhanced surveillance and improved coordination among regulatory agencies to protect consumers and legitimate businesses.
Authorities warn that the rise in counterfeit goods, often well-packaged and cheaper, has become a national issue, eroding consumer confidence, harming brands and posing serious health and safety risks.
In outlining the policy direction under the recently launched NDS 2, Government notes that, “The surge of counterfeit products which 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 over the performance of such goods, most of which are sub-standard. Challenges posed by counterfeits extend into regional export markets, undermining Brand Zimbabwe.”
Under NDS 2, a comprehensive multi-agency approach will be rolled out to disrupt illicit supply chains and hold offenders accountable.
“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,” reads part of the document.
As part of the enhanced enforcement framework, strict penalties will be imposed on offenders involved in any stage of the counterfeit value chain.
Added the document, “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.”
Partnerships with private-sector players, including manufacturers and retailers, will also be scaled up to enable faster detection of counterfeit goods and dismantle illicit networks.
“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 marketplace.”
Consumer protection will remain a central pillar of NDS 2, with efforts aimed at shielding the public and vulnerable markets from deceptive and dangerous products.
“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, several businesses were found selling counterfeit food items, beverages, vehicle parts, electronic gadgets and other goods, prompting the need for heightened vigilance.
The strategy builds on the Consumer Protection Act of 2019, which lays out fundamental consumer rights, including access 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 marketplace 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.”
To complement enforcement, the Consumer Protection Commission will roll out nationwide awareness campaigns.
“Furthermore, the Consumer Protection Commission will carry out awareness campaigns to educate consumers on the effects of counterfeit products.”
