The government has initiated a crackdown on shops and supermarkets in Harare and other cities that are selling counterfeit, expired, and smuggled goods, which have become increasingly prevalent in the market.
There is a thriving underground market for smuggled items, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, often sold at prices below the market rate in stores and on street corners. Local manufacturers have raised concerns about the unfair competition created by the influx of smuggled food products and other goods.
Recently, NewsDay observed the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the production, marketing, and processing of agricultural products, confiscating smuggled goods from various shops.
Masanga highlighted that the smuggling of goods is severely impacting the already struggling local industry, which has been advocating for protective measures. Last month, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) issued a firm warning against the sale of counterfeit, underweight, and smuggled products. The CPC is tasked with safeguarding consumers from unjust trade practices, as well as deceptive and fraudulent conduct.
Masanga pointed out that some products are being smuggled not due to shortages but because the AMA has not authorized their importation, as similar goods are already produced locally. “There are many local brands available that can compete with these smuggled items. However, the illegal nature of their importation creates unfair competition for our local products,” he explained.
A Spar outlet at Five Avenue Shopping Centre in Harare was identified as one of the shops selling smuggled goods. Masanga warned that shops and supermarkets caught selling these products would face hefty fines. “To restore order in the agricultural marketing sector, we must conduct these inspections regularly,” he stated.
“We will visit all shops, issuing seizure notices for the quantities of confiscated products, followed by fines. These fines will be significant to encourage compliance with the law.”
In September alone, the CPC prosecuted 3,500 businesses for offenses including the sale of underweight and expired goods, as well as improper packaging and labeling, which pose health risks to consumers.
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