Retailers Call for Blitz on Fake Electronics

Witness Runodada ZimNow reporter

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) issued an urgent call for a multi-agency enforcement operation to combat the growing trade in counterfeit and fraudulently marketed electronic goods in Harare’s Central Business District.

In a letter addressed to the Zimbabwe Republic Police Harare Metropolitan Province Commander Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, CZR president Dr Denford Mutashu warned that the sale of fake smartphones, tablets, laptops, and accessories had reached “alarming levels” and was undermining consumer protection and fair business practices.

“We are gravely concerned by the growing infiltration of counterfeit, refurbished, and fraudulently marketed electronic goods within the Harare Central Business District,” Mutashu wrote.

He said CZR had not only received numerous complaints from consumers and retailers but had also become a victim itself after purchasing a faulty phone from a city store that malfunctioned within days. “Attempts to seek a refund or replacement proved futile, with the seller becoming evasive and belligerent, clearly demonstrating the impunity with which these shops operate,” he added.

CZR said the illegal shops were misrepresenting used or refurbished gadgets as brand new, selling imitation products that breach intellectual property laws, operating without proper tax documentation, and avoiding regulation by remaining anonymous and untraceable.

“The implications are far-reaching. Legitimate retailers face unfair competition, the government loses revenue through tax leakages, and consumers are left vulnerable with no recourse,” said Mutashu. “The credibility of Zimbabwe’s retail and regulatory environment is severely compromised.”

CZR called on authorities to urgently investigate and identify non-compliant shops, seize fake goods, prosecute offenders under laws such as the Consumer Protection Act and Customs and Excise regulations, and enforce tax compliance.

They also urged public education campaigns to warn consumers about the dangers of these operations.

“We propose the formation of a Multi-Agency Taskforce to conduct a coordinated blitz and establish a zero-tolerance policy toward this dangerous and predatory business conduct,” said Mutashu.

He added that the CZR stands ready to assist with intelligence gathering, stakeholder mobilisation, and coordination to help restore order and protect Zimbabwean consumers from exploitation.

“We believe your collective action will not only restore order in this sector but also reaffirm the Government’s commitment to protecting consumers, promoting fair trade, and reinforcing the rule of law,” Mutashu said.