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From unsafe stoves to unlabelled sweets: NCC exposes widespread consumer rights abuse

Zuko Komisa

From unsafe stoves to unlabelled sweets: NCC exposes widespread consumer rights abuse
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  • The NCC issued 62 compliance notices following a nationwide probe into widespread Consumer Protection Act violations.
  • Inspectors found unsafe goods, misleading prices, and unfair contracts across the retail, food, and service sectors.
  • Non-compliant businesses face referral to the National Consumer Tribunal and heavy fines if they fail to rectify conduct.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued 62 compliance notices to businesses across South Africa following a rigorous nine-month enforcement programme.

Conducted between July 2025 and March 2026, the inspections targeted multiple provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape.

The crackdown revealed widespread disregard for the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) across various sectors, ranging from retail and electronics to food and hardware.

Investigators uncovered a broad spectrum of violations, including the sale of unsafe paraffin stoves, unlabelled food products, and “unbranded sweets.”

Many suppliers were found to be infringing on fundamental consumer rights by failing to display clear pricing, providing misleading product information, or refusing to accept returns for defective goods. Additionally, several service providers were flagged for using unfair contractual terms and failing to maintain accurate sales records.

Slimsy pomegranate squash recalled over safety concerns

Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu expressed deep concern over the scale of the non-compliance, noting that the NCC will not hesitate to take firm action against businesses flouting the law.

Under Section 100 of the CPA, the affected suppliers have been ordered to rectify their conduct within a specific timeframe. Those who fail to comply risk being referred to the National Consumer Tribunal, where they could face significant administrative fines.

The NCC has urged businesses to urgently review their internal practices to ensure they meet legal standards. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any instances of unfair business conduct.

This two-phase operation, which intensified in early 2026, signals a move towards stricter market surveillance to protect the safety and financial interests of South African consumers.

READ NEXT: National Police Commissioner summoned over R360m tender scandal

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