Source: Over 2 000 businesses in court for consumer violations – herald
Judith Phiri
Zimpapers Business Hub
OVER 2 000 errant businesses were prosecuted last year for exploiting consumers, following more than 12 inspections conducted by the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC).
This comes as the Government continues working to curb unfair business practices, as several violations continue to be uncovered, including the sale of counterfeit products and underweight goods, among others.
The rise of the informal sector has seen an increase in consumer complaints, particularly on social media, regarding businesses engaging in unscrupulous activities.
Responding to questions from this publication, CPC research and public affairs director, Mr Kudakwashe Mudereri, said common offences included trading of expired products and putting disclaimer clauses.
“As of the end of 2025, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) had done 12 627 inspections and prosecuted 2 271 businesses due to violating provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) Chapter (14:44).
“The main offences include selling expired products, putting disclaimer clauses such as No Returns, No refunds and No Exchange, not displaying prices, selling substandard or counterfeit products, among other offences,” he said.
He said the commission participated in the national task force on anti-smuggling and business malpractices and deployed its officers covering the country’s 10 provinces.
Mr Mudereri said they were actively addressing several cases concerning errant businesses.
“We have cases before the court where businesses are being prosecuted for refusing to give consumers refunds, which is now an offence under Section 18, 34 and 42 of the Consumer Protection Act. Other cases pending before the courts entail businesses caught selling expired products in Masvingo.
“Looking ahead, this year, we anticipate enhanced measures to combat consumer fraud and improve business accountability.
“Our initiatives include increased consumer education.”
He said the commission has expanded consumer awareness outreach programmes to inform the public (consumers) about their rights and how to report grievances.
Mr Mudereri said the programmes would target urban and rural areas, as well as the youth, elderly, marginalised groups and people living with disabilities.
“The commission will continue to work closely with businesses, consumer organisations and regulatory bodies to foster a fair marketplace, utilising the whole-of-Government approach. We are dedicated to protecting consumer rights and promoting fair business practices,” he said.
CPC’s main functions are to protect consumers from unconscionable, unreasonable, unjust, or otherwise improper trade practices, as well as deceptive, misleading, unfair, or fraudulent conduct.
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