CPC intensifies inspection, compliance checks

Judith Phiri, Business Reporter

THE Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has warned that it will intensify inspections and compliance checks to tackle business malpractices such as the use of fraudulent scales, sale of underweight products and unlabelled as well as counterfeit goods.

The warning comes in the wake of continued flouting of proper business ethics as businesses fraudulently profiteer at the expense of the consumers.

In 2023, the CPC conducted a total of 9 882 inspections across various business entities, issued 2 523 compliance notices and prosecuted 5 014 cases.

According to CPC statistics, the total number of complaints received in 2024 reached 594, with the commission resolving 509 cases, referring 63 to other regulators and taking 22 to court.

In an interview, CPC Research and Public Affairs Manager, Mr Kudakwashe Mudereri, shared that in January 2025, the Commission participated in the National Taskforce on Anti-Smuggling and Business Malpractices Blitz.

“During this period, we deployed officers across all 10 provinces. From 5 to 16 January 2025, we conducted 578 inspections leading to 373 prosecutions, 96 compliance notices, five court cases and 17 ongoing investigations,” he explained.

Key achievements include the dismantling of the Star Brands and Hardley Syndicates, manufacturers accused of producing underweight sugar that falls short of the standard weight of 2 kg, measuring only 1,6 kg.
Mr Mudereri also noted that numerous businesses faced prosecution for selling expired food items, while others were found to be marketing products with improper trade descriptions and labelling.

Kudakwashe Mudereri
“Among the malpractices we observe are counterfeits, smuggled products and the sale of illicit beverages. Other violations include misleading disclaimer notices, as stipulated in the Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 14:44) and related statutory instruments,” he added.

For 2025, the CPC plans to intensify its efforts against unscrupulous business operators.
“We will focus on ensuring that manufacturers comply with Section 51 of the Act, as well as examining service providers for any terms and conditions that contravene the Act. Additionally, we will conduct more joint operations with other stakeholders and regulators and engage with manufacturers in the fight against counterfeit and substandard products,” he stated.

A significant operation aimed at curtailing counterfeit products has led to the prosecution of several businesses suspected of being major suppliers of illegally repackaged sugar, resulting in the closure of some shops. This crackdown, spearheaded by the CPC in collaboration with other Government agencies, seeks to eliminate business malpractice.

Zimra
The initiative mandated by the Cabinet, involves inspections conducted by the CPC along with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Trade Measures Department, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

Penalties for those found guilty of these offences may include fines of up to US$5 000 or imprisonment for up to two years.

This enforcement action arises amid growing concerns over the influx of illegally imported goods, such as soft drinks, detergents and baby formula. These products may contain harmful substances, posing significant risks to public health and the economy. Authorities caution that counterfeit items can lead to foodborne illnesses and long-term health implications.