Consumers have been urged to buy products from reputable shops to avoid counterfeit goods. The advice came from the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) following various reports by consumers.
CCZ deputy executive director Mrs. Rose Mpofu revealed in an interview with the Herald that many reports of fake goods have reached her office. She said:
It is true that sometimes consumers come across counterfeit products. We have received reports of counterfeit goods ranging from medicines, drinks, food items, candles and soap.
We therefore encourage consumers to buy from reputable sources or shops where they can get recourse in the event of problems.
Mpofu also indicated that a local manufacturing company was forced to cease operations after reports were made that it was producing counterfeit goods. She said:
We were alerted of fake roll on and drinks that were being produced by this company and we managed to have their operations shut down.
We however still suspect that there are some unscrupulous suppliers who continue selling counterfeit products and we warn consumers against purchasing products from the black market.
She added that as a result of the economic crisis, customers are vulnerable to fake goods as they ignore reputable shops for cheaper goods from the black market. Mpofu added:
Consumer rights to safety have been trampled upon as they flock to the black market seeking for cheaper goods. Cheaper goods can only be found on the black market but the risk of being swindled is very high.
More: The Herald