Government has stepped up efforts to combat the growing circulation of counterfeit products and smuggling, with authorities warning that the sophistication of fake goods is increasing and posing risks to both consumers and legitimate businesses.
Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said stronger enforcement measures, improved consumer awareness and closer collaboration between government and manufacturers were essential to addressing the challenge.
Ndlovu noted that counterfeit products and illicit trade continue to undermine local industry, distort fair competition and expose consumers to potentially unsafe goods.
“Government is intensifying the fight against counterfeit products and smuggling as fake goods become increasingly sophisticated,” he said, adding that addressing the problem requires stronger enforcement and a coordinated response across multiple government institutions.
The minister say the approach will involve a whole-of-government strategy, bringing together regulatory agencies, border authorities, law enforcement institutions and industry players to strengthen monitoring and compliance.
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Ndlovu also urged consumers to play a more active role in protecting their rights, warning that some retail practices commonly used by businesses are unlawful.
“Protecting consumers is not the duty of government alone but requires collective effort,” he said.
The minister said businesses displaying notices such as “no refund” are violating consumer protection regulations in most circumstances.
“Disclaimers such as ‘no refund’ are illegal outside the health sector and consumers should report such practices to the relevant authorities,” he said.
Consumer protection advocates say counterfeit goods, ranging from electronics and clothing to pharmaceuticals and food products, have become increasingly common in informal and formal markets across the country.
Officials argue that tackling the problem will require sustained enforcement operations, stronger regulatory oversight and increased public awareness to discourage the purchase and distribution of illicit products.
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