The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned the public about the influx of substandard sugar products smuggled into Nigeria from Brazil.
In a statement by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC revealed that these sugar products failed to meet mandatory Vitamin A fortification requirements, posing significant health risks to consumers. The statement also highlighted how these substandard imports threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s local sugar industry and fuel price manipulation that destabilizes the market.
The commission noted that its operatives launched discreet investigations following a tip-off, focusing on regions in the South-West and North-East. The investigations uncovered that many of these sugar brands lacked proper labeling, such as production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the mandatory registration by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
To address the issue, the commission reassured the public of its commitment to upholding the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
It said it is taking decisive action, including collaborating with industry stakeholders to enforce compliance with quality standards, protect local producers, and promote a fair, competitive sugar market.
