In a significant move to protect consumers and ensure fair trade, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, is preparing to launch a digital platform designed to detect counterfeit products and safeguard market integrity.
The platform, called CCZ Verified, was announced by CCZ Chief Executive Officer Rose Mpofu in a statement commemorating World Anti-Counterfeiting Day, which is marked annually on June 6. Described as an innovative, collaborative tool, CCZ Verified will allow consumers and businesses to authenticate goods in real time and report suspected counterfeit items.
World Anti-Counterfeiting Day is a moment to reflect on the growing threat of counterfeit goods and their wide-reaching impact on consumers, businesses, and the global economy,” said Mpofu. “To this end, CCZ is investing heavily in verification processes to protect consumers from unscrupulous business practices.”
The new platform is expected to play a central role in Zimbabwe’s ongoing battle against counterfeit products, which have flooded various sectors of the market—from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to food items and electronics. By enabling real-time authentication, CCZ Verified aims to ensure that only genuine, safe products reach consumers.
Mpofu said the platform responds to growing calls from the public for more robust anti-fraud measures and increased transparency in commerce. The tool will be implemented in partnership with several brands and supported by law enforcement agencies to bolster its reach and effectiveness.
“We are already rolling it out with various partners. Businesses have a responsibility to guarantee the integrity of their products, and this platform will help them do that while also empowering consumers to make safer, informed choices,” she said.
Beyond the platform, Mpofu stressed the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and higher industry standards across all sectors. She highlighted CCZ’s growing influence not only in Zimbabwe but also on the regional and global stages. The organization is actively involved in standard-setting as a member of the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ), the African Regional Standards Organisation Consumer Committee (ARSOCoCo), and the ISO Consumer Policy Committee (ISO CoPoCo).
“Through these bodies, CCZ ensures that consumer interests are represented when standards are developed at both national and international levels,” she said.
With CCZ Verified, Zimbabwe joins a growing number of countries embracing digital technology in the fight against counterfeit goods. Authorities hope the initiative will significantly reduce the prevalence of fake products, rebuild consumer trust, and create a more transparent and accountable marketplace.
As the platform nears its official launch, consumers are being urged to remain vigilant and to take full advantage of the tool once it becomes available.
“This is about empowering the consumer,” Mpofu said. “When people know they are buying genuine, safe, and approved products, the entire economy benefits.”
