Importers of substandard goods have been put on notice, with the government vowing to step up its crackdown and impose stiff penalties to protect consumers and support local industries.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Amb Waziri Salum issued the statement in Dar es Salaam at the weekend during his visits to the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS).

“Substandard goods pose a serious risk to public health and undermine the growth of our local industries and the government will not hesitate to take firm action against those involved,” he said.

Ambassador Salum said the government is continuing to strengthen regulatory controls through its institutions to effectively curb the circulation of substandard goods.

He noted that substantial government investment in upgrading TBS infrastructure, particularly its laboratories, has enabled the agency to acquire modern, high-value equipment and enhance its testing capacity.

“This underscores the Government’s commitment to ensuring TBS operates efficiently and meets international standards, while recognising its vital contribution to the economy and enforcing compliance with quality standards,” he said.

He said he was satisfied with the work at TBS, noting that the laboratories operate with high professionalism, ensuring the quality of products used by the public.

“TBS plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health and safety of Tanzanians by ensuring that all products meet the required standards before entering the market,” he said.

On her part, the Director General of TBS, Dr Ashura Katunzi, said the institution continues to fulfil its mandate by ensuring that all locally produced and imported goods meet established quality standards.

She said the Permanent Secretary’s visit had encouraged TBS staff and demonstrated the government’s commitment to overseeing product quality.

“TBS has modern laboratories that test products to international standards, and government investment has strengthened its capacity to deliver accurate, timely results that help protect the health and safety of Tanzanians.”

“TBS continues to strengthen inspection of goods in the market as well as at border points to control substandard products,” she said.

She said that despite ongoing efforts, challenges persist, including attempts by some traders to bypass official channels, but the institution is working with other government agencies to address the issue.

She urged manufacturers and traders to comply with all registration and certification requirements through relevant institutions before placing goods on the market.