The government is considering a new law to protect local industry and consumers from a growing influx of fake and substandard imports, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has said.
Ndlovu said the spread of counterfeit products threatens the national economy by undermining competitiveness, reducing revenue to the fiscus and exposing consumers to health risks.
“In fact, let me point out that, from reports gathered during consumer protection forums, as well as education and awareness programmes conducted across the country, there has been a strong and consistent advocacy from the public for the enactment of a dedicated counterfeit Act,” added Minister Ndlovu.
“This growing call underscores the urgency of strengthening our legislative and enforcement framework.”
He said the government had already stepped up enforcement through the Consumer Protection Commission and the Task Force on Business Malpractices.
“To date, more than 5 087 businesses have been inspected, with over 560 prosecutions finalised, 589 compliance notices issued and 6 189 seizures effected,” added Minister Ndlovu.
“Let me emphasise that these figures represent only part of the progress achieved, as much more has been accomplished by the CPC, whose statistics are yet to be fully embedded into this record.
“These outcomes clearly demonstrate the impact of enhanced institutional capacity and underscore the importance of continued resource support to sustain nationwide enforcement.”
Related:
Cabinet Adopts New Consumer Protection Policy
Consumer Watchdog Engages NetOne As Subscribers Pay For Off-Peak Data They Can’t Use