The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) announced on Wednesday that it had discovered substandard and unregistered sugar products in Nigerian markets, particularly in the South-West and Northeast regions.
According to FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu, the counterfeit products include smuggled brands from Brazil, such as Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S. Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia.
“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has uncovered the presence of substandard and unregistered sugar products,” the statement read.
He noted that the products were smuggled through Nigeria’s porous borders, particularly from neighbouring countries such as Cameroon and the Benin Republic.
The commission’s investigations revealed that the substandard sugar brands often lacked proper labelling, including production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the mandatory NAFDAC registration.
It further stated that smuggling, facilitated by porous borders with neighbouring countries like Cameroon and the Benin Republic, has worsened the issue, complicating enforcement and traceability.
The FCCPC also emphasised the economic implications, pointing out that substandard imports create unfair competition.
“The products, which failed to meet mandatory Vitamin A fortification requirements, pose serious health risks to consumers, undermine the integrity of the local sugar industry, and contribute to price manipulation that distorts the market.
“Acting on a tip-off, FCCPC operatives conducted discreet investigations across the country, particularly in the South-West and North-East regions.
“The FCCPC is also engaging with industry stakeholders to promote compliance with quality standards, protect local producers, and foster fair competition within the sugar market,” He added.
