Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has urged consumers to be alert to counterfeit products and unfair trade practices as they shop and travel during the festive season, a period traditionally characterised by increased consumer spending.
Counterfeit products tend to flood the market during the festive season as unscrupulous traders take advantage of high demand for goods and services.
CCZ executive officer Mrs Rosemary Mpofu said CCZ remains committed to protecting and promoting consumer rights ensuring access to safe, quality and fairly priced goods and services.
“As you shop and travel during the festive season, please be vigilant against counterfeit products and unfair trade practices,” said Mrs Mpofu.
She also cautioned consumers against deceptive business conduct, noting that misleading information and advertisements become more prevalent during peak shopping periods.
“Be vigilant against misleading information, misleading advertisements,” she said.
Government, working with relevant stakeholders has launched a programme aimed at curbing the proliferation of counterfeit products on the market, as part of broader efforts to protect consumers and promote fair trade.
She added that as consumer transactions increase during the holidays, disputes between consumers and businesses are also likely to rise, making it important for affected parties to seek amicable solutions.
“As consumer transactions increase during the holidays, CCZ reminds consumers and businesses alike to make use of our conciliation and arbitration services to resolve the problems of the pandemic.
CCZ is committed to ensuring that consumers are able to resolve disputes in a fair, efficient and amicable manner,” she said.
Mrs Mpofu said the council’s alternative dispute resolution mechanisms would remain operational throughout the festive season to ensure continued consumer protection.
“These alternative dispute resolution mechanisms remain available during the festive season to ensure that consumer complaints are addressed promptly, even during the festive season, without the need for lengthy legal processes,” she said.
She urged consumers to remain aware of their fundamental rights at all times.
“So always remember your rights,
your right to information,
your right to safety,” said Mrs Mpofu.
