Gvt Cracks Down on Sellers of Underweight Products
The Zimbabwean government is tightening the screws on unscrupulous manufacturers, packers, retailers, and the public who sell underweight products, vowing to prosecute offenders.
Investigations have uncovered a range of deceptive practices, such as 2kg packs of sugar weighing only 1.7kg and 5kg packs of maize meal weighing as little as 2kg. In one case, three 2kg packets of a popular rice brand from a central Harare retailer were found to weigh between 1.69kg and 1.87kg.
Underweight products can occur at any stage of the supply chain, from the initial manufacturing process to intermediate steps and even at the retail level. However, the Consumer Protection Act deems it a crime to sell products with manipulated labels and trade descriptions that mislead consumers.
Offenders face a fine not exceeding Level 6 (approximately $600 USD) or up to one year in prison, or both. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has expressed concern over these “illegal practices” and “deceptive tendencies” that shortchange consumers.
“Manufacturers, packers, retailers and the general public are reminded that in terms of the legislation cited above, unless otherwise exempted, it is a requirement that any products for sale in any form shall be sold in prescribed quantities and clearly labelled,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry also warned that using uncertified, incorrect, or tampered-with measuring equipment is an offense. Businesses must ensure their equipment is properly “assized” (verified) by the Trade Measures Department.
To combat these illicit practices, the Trade Measures Department, Consumer Protection Commission, and other government agencies are conducting ongoing campaigns targeting non-compliant businesses.
One offender, Wellington Pakai, admitted to buying bulk products, opening them, and repacking into smaller packages, gradually reducing the quantities due to “greed.”
The public is urged to be vigilant and report any instances of underweight or mislabeled products to the authorities. The ministry emphasizes that businesses must operate ethically and legally, or face the consequences.
