CPA flags over 133 unregistered products on Ghanaian market

The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has identified over 133 products on the Ghanaian market that are being sold without registration from either the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) or the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), raising renewed concerns about consumer safety and regulatory enforcement in the country.

In a statement released on Thursday, May 21, the Agency said its market surveillance exercise revealed extensive breaches, with several products entering the market without undergoing the required testing and certification processes.

While raising the alarm, the CPA commended the Ghana Standards Authority for recent enforcement operations against substandard goods, including the shutdown of a mattress production company accused of using unapproved materials and a raid at China Mall that led to the removal of non-compliant items from shelves.

According to the Agency, these interventions reflect a strengthened commitment by the GSA to uphold product quality standards and protect consumers.

However, the CPA cautioned that the growing presence of unregistered goods remains a serious threat to public health and the local economy. It noted that many of these items are smuggled into the country, allowing importers to avoid taxes and duties while undercutting law-abiding businesses.

The Agency further warned that such products pose significant health and safety risks, as they are not subjected to mandatory regulatory checks and approval processes by the relevant authorities.

It therefore urged the GSA, FDA, Ghana Revenue Authority, and other enforcement bodies to intensify coordinated operations and swiftly remove all non-compliant products from circulation.

The CPA also expressed its willingness to support regulators by sharing surveillance findings and contributing to public awareness campaigns on product safety and compliance.