CCZ blitz against unethical price hikes during festive season

The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has announced a crackdown on unjustified price hikes and unethical business practices targeting consumers during the festive season.

CCZ Corporate Affairs Director, Phil Chereni, condemned the common practice of retailers inflating prices without justification, calling it "unethical behaviour" that artificially drives up inflation.

"Despite a period of relative economic stability, some retailers exploit the festive season to escalate prices arbitrarily. This practice is unacceptable," Chereni said, urging businesses to maintain fair and consistent pricing in support of national economic stabilisation efforts.

While acknowledging operational cost pressures, the council stressed that these cannot justify exploitative pricing during peak consumer spending periods. Chereni also warned against other unethical practices, including misleading promotions, hidden charges, and unlawful disclaimer clauses such as "no returns, no refunds, no exchanges."

The CCZ was designated under Section 55 of the Consumer Protection Act and Statutory Instrument 181 of 2024 as a conciliation and arbitration body, giving it authority to intervene in disputes between consumers and businesses.

Chereni emphasized that the council will not hesitate to investigate complaints and facilitate redress where consumers' rights to fair pricing, quality goods, and refunds or exchanges are violated. He encouraged consumers to report any suspected unethical practices to the CCZ.