Retailers in and around Kampala have attributed the persistent presence of counterfeit and substandard products in their stores to the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).
The standards body is now engaging the private sector to explore ways to better combat the illicit trade of both local and imported goods.
During a recent dialogue at UNBS headquarters, participants proposed that the agency concentrate its enforcement efforts on importers and manufacturers to ensure compliance before products reach the market, rather than primarily targeting supermarkets and retailers.
This shift aims to prevent substandard products from entering the supply chain at the source.
Some traders expressed frustration over the lengthy process of obtaining the standards mark, known as the Q-mark.
They explained that manufacturers often present documents from UNBS indicating that their products are under certification, which they use to assure retailers that their goods are approved for sale, even before the Q-mark is issued.
Asiimwe Brave, manager of Tendo Yerusalemi and Zion Supermarkets in Mukono and Lugazi, shared his experience, noting that UNBS inspectors confiscate all products during raids.
He emphasized that only goods bearing the Q-mark should be stocked, especially for locally made products, to comply with standards.
UNBS explained that its current approach aims to learn from the challenges faced by different business sectors regarding standards enforcement.
The agency recognizes that many businesses lack full awareness of operational requirements and emphasizes the importance of sensitization.
This approach is intended to educate the business community about standards, fostering compliance and mutual understanding during enforcement activities.
30th April 2025
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