NPA, ZCSA plan crackdown on substandard goods

The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) and the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) have announced plans to jointly prosecute individuals and companies dealing in substandard products, in a move aimed at protecting consumers, public health and the environment.

The two institutions are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) later this year to formalise their collaboration and strengthen enforcement of compulsory standards.

Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri said the partnership will serve as a strong deterrent by ensuring offenders are taken to court and penalised.

“It is important that individuals or entities are prosecuted for manufacturing, importing or supplying substandard products so that others can learn from such action,” he said.

Phiri also raised concern over the continued circulation of adulterated products on the market, citing cases where diesel is mixed with water.

Meanwhile, ZCSA Executive Director Gerald Chizinga warned that the presence of non-compliant goods poses serious risks to public safety, health and the environment.

He noted that without stronger enforcement and prosecution, the objectives of the Compulsory Standards Act may not be fully achieved.

ZCSA Board Secretary and Director of Legal and Compliance Tafuna Phiri said the agency plans to train NPA prosecutors in compulsory standards to improve case handling.

And NPA Chief State Advocate Nkumbiza Mumba called for tougher penalties, noting that the authority has previously handled cases involving substandard products such as shoes and alcoholic beverages.

The joint initiative is expected to tighten regulation and curb the supply of unsafe and poor-quality goods on the Zambian market.