CZR Calls for Stronger Consumer Protection, Regulatory Reform at National Workshop

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has called for urgent reforms in regulatory processes and stepped-up efforts to tackle counterfeit goods in the market, during the opening of the Consumer Affairs and Anti-Counterfeit Measures Workshop held in Harare recently.

Speaking on behalf of CZR President Denford Mutashu, a representative from the Confederation opened the workshop by outlining key challenges faced by formal retailers and wholesalers, including the rising tide of counterfeit products, an uneven playing field with informal traders, and regulatory burdens stifling business growth.

The event, held under the theme of strengthening consumer protection and promoting ethical trade, brought together a wide array of stakeholders including government officials, industry regulators, law enforcement, business associations, and consumer rights advocates.

The Guest of Honour, Honourable Minister of Industry and Commerce Mangaliso Ndlovu, was represented by Mr. Gowora from the Ministry. Other notable attendees included the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe CEO Mrs. Rose Mpofu, Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, and representatives from organisations such as the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), and the SME Association of Zimbabwe.

CZR emphasised the urgent need to crack down on the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard products in the Zimbabwean market, warning that the trade poses serious risks to consumer safety, undermines confidence in brands, and threatens compliant businesses.

“A market flooded with counterfeit goods not only violates consumer rights but distorts fair competition, exposes the public to health and safety risks, and reduces fiscal revenue,” the representative said. “This issue must be addressed through tighter enforcement, public education, and stronger penalties for offenders.”

The organisation pledged full support for the implementation of the Consumer Protection Act, which was described as a vital legislative tool in protecting consumer interests and promoting fair trade practices.

While expressing commitment to compliance and ethical trading, CZR raised concerns over what it described as “compliance fatigue” in the formal sector due to overlapping and burdensome licensing, inspection, and regulatory requirements.

“Formal businesses are being stretched thin by a fragmented and often inconsistent regulatory environment,” said the CZR representative. “We advocate for harmonisation of these processes, the digitisation of licensing systems, and a shift towards a one-stop-shop model.”

The Confederation also criticised the continued closure of licensed retail outlets by some local authorities, particularly the City of Harare, calling for a more transparent, consistent, and dialogue-based approach to enforcement.

CZR expressed concern over the growing dominance of the informal market, which it argued operates without regulation, tax obligations, or adherence to labour and consumer safety standards.

“This creates an uneven playing field for compliant operators,” the representative noted. CZR urged the government to develop a simplified national formalisation strategy that incentivises and supports informal traders to enter the formal economy.

Beyond regulatory and market concerns, the Confederation also highlighted its involvement in national social causes. CZR announced its active participation in the fight against drug and substance abuse, an initiative led by the Office of the Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province and championed by the First Lady of Zimbabwe.

“No economy can thrive while its youth are being destroyed by drugs,” the representative stated. “CZR is committed to mobilising resources and building awareness to support this national priority.”

In closing, CZR reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, regulators, and private stakeholders to foster a fair and trustworthy commercial environment.

“This workshop is not just about identifying problems—it is about finding practical solutions through collaboration,” the representative concluded. “Consumer protection and anti-counterfeiting are not government responsibilities alone; they require shared commitment from all players.”

The workshop was supported by National Foods Limited and attended by members of the media, civil society, and various business and consumer-focused organisations.