Zambia Considers Declaration of Over 40 New Compulsory Standards to Enhance Consumer and Environmental Protection
The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) is currently in the process of consulting various stakeholders regarding the proposed declaration of more than 40 new Zambian Standards as Compulsory Standards. This initiative aims to bolster consumer and environmental protection across the nation.
In an official statement released by Onishias Maamba, Public Relations Officer for the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency, it was revealed that the drafting process for the 41 proposed standards has been successfully completed.
These standards cover a wide range of products including industrial goods, food products, solar equipment, construction materials, fertilizer, and packaging materials.
Mr. Maamba emphasized that the expansion of compulsory standards will broaden the regulatory intervention of the Agency, leading to heightened protection for consumers. Stakeholders from both the private and public sectors have been engaged in consultations to provide insights and feedback on the proposed declaration.
These consultations included discussions on the potential impact of the draft Compulsory Standards and solicited input through constructive dialogues.
The process of developing these new standards as compulsory is expected to be finalized by the second quarter of 2024. Additionally, discussions during the consultations also addressed proposed amendments to the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017 and the proposed fee structure for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Currently, the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency regulates 61 imported and locally manufactured products falling within the scope of compulsory standards. These products span various categories such as food products, beverages, chemicals, fertilizers, cement, and household electrical appliances.
Established by the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017, the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency operates as a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry. Its mandate is to administer, maintain, and ensure compliance with compulsory standards for the purpose of public safety, health, consumer, and environmental protection.
