Smuggled and substandard goods destroyed in crackdown on illegal trade

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

Huge quantities of counterfeit, substandard and underweight products were destroyed at the Geo Pomona Waste Management site in Harare as part of an ongoing crackdown by the Anti-Smuggling Taskforce.

The destruction of the goods was aimed at protecting consumers from potentially harmful products.

Speaking during the event, Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) director Mr Kudakwashe Mudereri said they were concerned about the influx of illegal and counterfeit goods on the informal market.

“We have seen a sudden proliferation of counterfeit and substandard products, expired goods, and underweight products flooding the market,” Mr Mudereri said.

“This operation was conducted to safeguard our consumers. Many of these products pose serious health risks.

“We have partnered with Geo Pomona to ensure that all products that do not meet required standards are destroyed so they do not pose a danger to consumers,” he said.

Harare Metropolitan Province’s Anti-Smuggling Taskforce coordinator, Mr Tawedzera Muwani assured the public that confiscated goods will not be sold or used.

“This is just the beginning,” Mr Muwani said. “Smuggled and illegal goods, including those that are substandard, will be destroyed. We do not take them home, and we do not allow them to re-enter the market.”

He acknowledged the collaborative effort among various Government entities in combating smuggling and counterfeit trade.

“We extend our gratitude to all the Government entities we have worked with, including the City of Harare, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, CPC and ZRP,” he said.

“By destroying these goods, we are showing our commitment to eradicating illegal and substandard products from the market.”