Consumers Warned of Underweight “Star” Sugar Sold in Market

The Consumer Protection Commission, working in coordination with the Trade Measures department in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, has confiscated sugar labeled under the “Star” brand that was being sold underweight in the market. Perpetrators caught selling this underweight sugar have been taken to court and fined heavily.

Samples taken showed that a supposed 2kg packet of the “Star” brand sugar was actually only weighing 1.0kg. The Commission is urging the public to report any instances of this sugar or other products being sold underweight or packaged illegally. Consumers can call the Commission’s hotline numbers to lodge complaints.

This follows a recent government announcement to crack down on manufacturers, packers, retailers, and others selling underweight products. Investigations have found numerous examples of consumer goods, including 2kg sugar packs and 5kg maize meal packs, being sold significantly underweight.

According to the Consumer Protection Act, it is a crime to sell products with manipulated labels or trade descriptions that mislead consumers. Those arrested for defrauding consumers can face fines of up to Level 6 or up to 1 year in prison.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has warned all businesses to ensure they are selling products in the prescribed quantities, with proper labeling and certified measuring equipment. Unscrupulous practices like selling underweight goods will be met with prosecution.

Consumers are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of underweight or illegally packaged products to the relevant authorities. The government is committed to protecting shoppers from these deceptive and fraudulent practices.