Government Issues Stern Warning to Counterfeiters Amid Crackdown on Fake Goods

The Zimbabwean government has issued a stern warning to producers and sellers of counterfeit goods, vowing to intensify efforts to curb the illegal trade that is defrauding consumers and undermining the economy.

The announcement, made by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, follows a surge in counterfeit products flooding the market, prompting heightened scrutiny from law enforcement.

In a statement posted on the Ministry’s official X account (@Min_of_IC) at 5:45 PM today, the Minister of Industry and Commerce declared, “No to Counterfeit! One way or the other, you may have encountered counterfeit.

This is a warning to all those involved in the production of fake goods.

The selling of counterfeit goods is a rip-off to unsuspecting consumers. Law enforcement is conducting routine inspections.”

The Ministry’s warning underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumers and fostering a fair trading environment as part of its Vision 2030 economic goals.

Counterfeit goods, ranging from fake pharmaceuticals to substandard electronics and clothing, have been a persistent challenge in Zimbabwe, often compromising consumer safety and eroding trust in local markets.

The proliferation of such goods has also been linked to revenue losses for legitimate businesses and the government.

Law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with the Ministry, have ramped up routine inspections across markets and retail outlets to identify and seize counterfeit products.

Offenders face severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, under Zimbabwe’s consumer protection and trade regulations.

The Ministry has urged the public to report suspicious goods and emphasised the importance of purchasing from verified suppliers to avoid falling victim to scams.

This crackdown aligns with broader efforts under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), set to launch in 2026, which prioritises industrial growth and consumer protection.

The government’s aggressive stance on counterfeiting is expected to bolster confidence in Zimbabwe’s markets while supporting local industries striving to meet international standards. As the campaign against counterfeit goods gains momentum, the Ministry has called on businesses to comply with regulations and urged consumers to remain vigilant.

“Selling counterfeit is not just a crime; it’s a rip-off to unsuspecting consumers,” the Minister said.