The rise of counterfeit products in Zimbabwe presents a grave threat to local industries, according to Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi. He made these remarks during the National Economic Consultative Forum (NECF) Dialogue on the Consequences of Counterfeit Products held in Harare.
The dialogue, themed “Combating Counterfeit Products in Zimbabwe and Fostering Economic Growth,” aimed to promote a comprehensive government approach to tackle the economic challenges posed by counterfeiting.
Commissioner Nyathi highlighted that counterfeiting has infiltrated various sectors, including agriculture, with fake fertilizers, seeds, and agricultural chemicals becoming prevalent. He noted concerns about counterfeit medicines, including fraudulent claims regarding beverages purported to have medicinal benefits, which lack approval from the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.
The proliferation of counterfeit vehicle parts, particularly fake brakes and brake fluid, raises significant safety issues, potentially leading to increased road accidents. He emphasized that counterfeit products often deceive consumers with attractive packaging that can appear superior to genuine items.
Despite efforts to combat these practices, the response has been inadequate, hindered by insufficient law enforcement, low consumer awareness, and a strong demand for cheaper alternatives. “If people take this counterfeiting issue for granted, they will wake up with no industry in Zimbabwe,” warned Commissioner Nyathi, stressing the broad implications for various sectors, particularly agriculture.
He described the situation as a security threat, particularly regarding health, with reports of fake vaccines entering the market. Commissioner Nyathi revealed that illicit deals could yield between US$20,000 and US$60,000 weekly for some individuals involved in these activities.
Engineer Amos Marawa, deputy chief secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, echoed these concerns, stating that counterfeit goods pose severe risks to public health, consumer safety, and the integrity of Zimbabwe’s markets. He highlighted the global economic impact of counterfeiting, which results in billions of dollars lost annually and millions of jobs affected.
Mr. Alouis Burutsa, chief executive of Buy Zimbabwe, called for urgent action, linking the rise in counterfeit goods to a decline in government revenue and tax collections. He criticized the disparity in penalties for environmental crimes versus economic crimes, urging for stricter measures against those undermining the economy.
The global trade in counterfeit goods is an escalating issue, leading to significant economic challenges, job losses, and diminishing tax revenues.
