TBS warns traders against unregistered, substandard goods
COAST REGION: THE Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has warned traders and importers against dealing in unregistered and substandard products, including food and cosmetics, as it intensifies market surveillance across the country.
TBS Eastern Zone Manager, Engineer Cyril Kimario, issued the warning during the destruction of 5.6 tonnes of substandard goods in Mkuranga District, Coast Region. The destroyed consignment included expired house paints, banned cosmetics containing harmful ingredients and expired food products.
“TBS continues to remove and destroy substandard goods because their use poses serious health, environmental and economic risks to consumers. Our operations are aimed at ensuring that only safe and approved products reach the market,” Eng Kimario said.
He said the agency remains committed to protecting public health by removing products that fail to meet national quality and safety standards.
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According to him, some prohibited goods are smuggled into the country through unofficial entry routes to evade inspection.
“TBS staff remain vigilant to ensure all products available on the market are registered and comply with the required standards. Our goal is to ensure no Tanzanian is harmed by using unsafe products,” he said.
Eng Kimario urged consumers to avoid purchasing expired goods and banned cosmetics, encouraging them to report suspected substandard products to the authorities. He also warned traders and importers that legal action would continue to be taken against those found importing, distributing or selling prohibited products.
The bureau said the destroyed goods were seized during routine and surprise inspections conducted in warehouses and markets as part of ongoing efforts to protect consumers and ensure fair trade.
