Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti-Herald Reporter
GOVERNMENT and retailers have launched a nationwide campaign declaring 81 days of intensified action against counterfeit and substandard goods.
The initiative seeks to protect consumers, support local industry and restore integrity in Zimbabwe’s marketplace.
Spearheaded by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers in partnership with Proma Events Africa, the campaign was officially launched in Harare on yesterday and will run from April 22 to July 1.
The programme will conclude with a National Consumer and Product Integrity Summit and Product Expo, designed to bring together manufacturers, retailers, financial institutions, enforcement agencies, and policymakers.
At the launch yesterday, Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Rajeshkumar Modi said the initiative was important in strengthening industrial growth and market integrity.
“Industrial growth is not simply about producing more goods. It is about ensuring that every product reaching our market meets standards of quality, safety, authenticity, and fairness.
“Without integrity, industrialisation loses its foundation,” he said.
Deputy Minister Modi expressed concerns about counterfeit goods and illicit trade, warning that they undermine brand value, discourage compliant manufacturers, reduce tax revenues, and distort fair competition, while exposing consumers to health and safety risks.
To combat these issues, the Government has intensified enforcement through an anti-smuggling task force collaborating with border authorities and other agencies to prevent illicit goods from entering the market.
Authorities are also working to strengthen the Trade Measures Department and expand the Consumer Protection Commission to all provinces, aligning with the devolution agenda to safeguard consumer rights nationwide.
In addition, the Government continues to implement the Consignment-Based Conformity Assessment (CBCA) programme, which mandates that imported goods be inspected and certified for compliance with Zimbabwean standards before entering the local market.
“By verifying quality and authenticity at source, CBCA reduces the risk of counterfeit and substandard products reaching our shelves and strengthens confidence in Zimbabwe’s marketplace,” said Deputy Minister Modi.
Proma Events Africa administration manager Mr Gideon Moyo outlined that the 81-day programme would extend beyond the launch, featuring provincial workshops, stakeholder meetings and roadshows targeting communities in urban and rural areas.
He cautioned that counterfeit goods, often produced with fake trademarks and packaging, pose serious economic and safety risks.
“This is not merely a brand issue. It is a national economic issue,” he stated, noting that counterfeit electrical products can cause fires, while fake automotive parts, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals threaten public safety.
CZR president Mr Denford Mutashu, said that counterfeiting has become an organised distortion in the country’s marketplace, jeopardising the manufacturing and retail sectors.
“When this chain is disrupted, the national economy is weakened,” he remarked.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has pledged stronger enforcement against counterfeit networks and smuggling syndicates.
ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that operations targeting distributors of fake and substandard goods are being intensified.
“These operations are ongoing and will continue without fear or favour because we want Zimbabweans to live in a safe economic environment that contributes to peace and security,” he said, stressing that counterfeit electrical appliances can spark fires, while fake brake fluids and brake pads may lead to fatal accidents.
Authorities believe the nationwide campaign will strengthen collaboration between the Government, industry, and consumers, promoting ethical trade practices and safeguarding the nation’s economy.
Peter Tanyanyiwa