Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
LOCAL manufacturing companies have applauded the Government for its anti-smuggling campaign, which has seen various goods being impounded, saying it helps them protect their business and at the same time providing a fair market environment.
The anti-smuggling is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce through its Taskforce on Business Malpractices, which was mandated to bring sanity in the economy and allow growth.
Speaking during a tour of his company by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce Dr Thomas Utete, Waverly Blankets managing director, Mr Aron Vico said the anti-smuggling campaign is paying dividends for local companies.
Mr Vico said capacity utilisation increased from 25 percent to 40 percent since the start of Government’s efforts to curb smuggling.
He also indicated that demand for more workers has increased at his company.
“The ministry’s anti-smuggling initiatives help create a fair market environment by reducing the influx of illegally imported blankets, allowing local manufacturers like our company to compete effectively,” he said.
“With fewer smuggled products in the market, sales have improved as customers are more likely to purchase locally made, quality blankets over cheaper, substandard alternatives.
“Strengthened enforcement aainst smuggling helps protect jobs within my company and the broader manufacturing sector, ensuring that local workers maintain stable employment.
“Anti-smuggling efforts promote the value of high-quality, locally produced goods, which enhances consumer trust in our products and the industry as a whole.
“A crackdown on smuggling makes the business environment more attractive for investment, allowing us to expand operations and improve production capabilities.”
According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, its teams have carried out 1 907 inspections and 137 prosecutions while issuing 247 compliance notices and impounding 3 987 units of smuggled products.
