THE Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has seized 1,444 non-compliant electrical products in Lusaka, valued at K45,451.50. 

The Agency has also restricted 651 non – compliant assorted products in Lusaka valued at K236,720 pending corrective measures to comply with relevant compulsory standards.

According to a statement issued to ZANIS by ZCSA Communications and Public Relations Acting Manager Brian Hatyoka, this brings the total value of non-compliant products to about K282,171.

Mr Hatyoka stated that the enforcement is part of the ongoing national Open Market Surveillance inspections, which was carried out in Lusaka’s Town Centre, Soweto market and Intercity Bus Terminus from November 11 to 15, this year.

He added that the exercise covered imported and locally manufactured products covered by compulsory standards.

“Electrical Fittings and Connections had the highest percentage of non-compliances at 83 percent followed by Fruit flavoured drinks and washing detergents at seven percent each, while potable spirits had three percent,” Mr Hatyoka disclosed.

He stated the overall level of compliance in Lusaka stood at 82 percent involving 145 manufacturers, 216 brands and 51 trading outlets. 

Mr Hatyoka warned of ZCSA performing stern action against traders who are illegally supplying non-compliant products on the Zambian market. 

He said that the agency will continue conducting enforcement activities in Lusaka and other parts of Zambia in a bid to ensure that only safe products are allowed on the market. 

And Mr Hatyoka has revealed that non-compliant products being seized and withdrawn from the market are being destroyed in line with Section 16 4 (a) and (b) of the Compulsory Standards Act, in a bid to protect consumers and the environment.