The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has uncovered a syndicate operating in Mashonaland Central Province, Bindura CBD, involved in deceptive practices of repackaging low-quality, underweight sugar and selling it under the falsely labelled brands Star Brand and Sugar Pack. The repackaged sugar, marketed as 2kg packs, contained only 1.6kg, thereby defrauding consumers.
This discovery was made during a Cabinet-directed operation targeting business malpractices. The CPC conducted the inspections in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Trade Measures Department, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
According to initial intelligence, the syndicate is a major supplier of illicitly repackaged sugar in Zimbabwe. The offending business has been shut down, its stock confiscated, and legal proceedings are underway. This is part of a broader crackdown that has seen over 90 businesses prosecuted for similar offenses, with serious cases being referred to the courts.
The CPC has reiterated that such activities violate Section 10 of the Consumer Protection Act (Chapter 14:44), which mandates that all goods and services meet prescribed safety and quality standards. The Commission remains committed to safeguarding consumers from such exploitative practices and ensuring accountability for offenders.
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
