FCCPC WARNS IMPORTERS AGAINST UNSAFE PRODUCT SUBSTITUTES

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has cautioned importers against introducing unsafe substitutes into the Nigerian market as businesses seek alternatives to products affected by supply and cost pressures.

The commission said importers and distributors must ensure that substitute products meet relevant safety and quality requirements before they are offered to consumers.

The warning comes amid rising costs and supply challenges that have encouraged some businesses to search for cheaper alternatives to existing products.

The FCCPC stressed that lower prices or limited availability should not be used as justification for compromising consumer safety.

It urged importers to conduct proper checks on products and ensure compliance with applicable standards before bringing them into the country.

The commission also called on businesses to provide accurate information about the quality, specifications, and safety of substitute products so consumers can make informed purchasing decisions.

Consumer protection experts said unsafe substitutes could expose Nigerians to health and financial risks while also undermining confidence in legitimate businesses.

They urged regulators to strengthen monitoring at points of entry and across distribution channels to prevent substandard products from reaching consumers.

The FCCPC said it would continue to monitor markets and take enforcement action against businesses found to be violating consumer protection requirements.

It also encouraged consumers to report suspicious or potentially unsafe products to the relevant authorities.

The commission reaffirmed that businesses have a responsibility to protect consumers while pursuing commercial opportunities and urged importers to prioritise safety and compliance in their operations