A total of 3,779 businesses have come under inspection across the country, leading to 419 prosecutions and the confiscation of over 4,800 inferior products, as government agencies ramp up efforts to curb smuggling and protect consumer rights.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, unannounced inspections have been conducted to identify and penalize businesses engaging in unethical practices such as selling fake items, underweight products, using unfair pricing systems, and other violations.
In collaboration with the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ), the ministry recently carried out a survey which found that nearly half of the groceries sold in tuck shops and informal vending spaces are counterfeit and potentially harmful to public health.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Ministry reported that more than 3,000 enterprises have undergone inspection, with over 400 facing legal action for breaching trade and consumer protection laws.
“A nationwide anti-smuggling campaign is ongoing, which includes surprise visits to retail and informal outlets to enforce compliance with existing laws and regulations.
Those found engaging in exploitative behavior—such as selling fake or underweight goods, applying multiple pricing tiers, or offering inadequately labeled products—are being held accountable,” the statement noted.
So far, authorities have issued 402 compliance warnings and seized 4,816 substandard goods as part of the broader effort to enforce ethical business practices.
The Ministry also reminded businesses of their obligations under the Consumer Protection Act of 2019, which mandates ethical conduct and fair treatment of customers.
Amid ongoing economic difficulties, many consumers have turned to informal retailers and tuck shops for more affordable grocery options. However, a portion of these goods are believed to be either illegally produced locally or smuggled in from neighboring countries like South Africa and Zambia.
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