By Our Correspondent, Tanga
The Tanzanian government is intensifying efforts to stop counterfeit goods from entering the country, with the Fair Competition Commission (FCC) playing a leading role in protecting consumers and supporting legitimate trade.
Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr. Selemani Serera, praised FCC officials for their professionalism during a visit to Horohoro Customs Post on the Tanzania-Kenya border.
The visit, which followed a stop at the Port of Tanga, marked the conclusion of a two-day seminar aimed at strengthening understanding of competition, consumer protection, and counterfeit control.
“Horohoro Customs Post serves both local citizens and traders from neighbouring countries. It is vital that FCC staff carry out inspections with integrity and diligence,” Dr. Serera said.
He warned that even a few dishonest officials could damage the credibility of services and undermine the country’s efforts to safeguard consumers.
“As a government, we fully support the important work FCC is doing. Any challenges that arise will be addressed to ensure continued protection for Tanzanians,” he added.
Acting Director General of FCC, Ms. Khadija Ngasongwa, said the commission is committed to preventing counterfeit products by ensuring that all imported goods are genuine, properly labeled, and traceable to their source.
She added that FCC is expanding regional offices and rolling out the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Tanoga system, which will strengthen audits and inspections across the country.
Horohoro Customs Assistant Manager, Mr. Joseph Raymond, noted that close collaboration among all border units ensures thorough inspection of goods entering and leaving Tanzania, creating a safer trading environment for both businesses and consumers.
Officials said the government’s focus on strengthening border controls and improving coordination with FCC and other agencies will help protect Tanzanians from counterfeit goods while promoting fair trade across the region.
