The Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) has fined seven businesses a combined K51.5 million for selling expired products, in a crackdown aimed at protecting consumers and public health in Malawi.

Speaking at a press conference in Lilongwe, CFTC Chief Executive Officer, Desmond Kaunda, said inspections uncovered expired goods at several businesses across the country.

Tutlas Limited in Salima received the highest penalty of K25 million after inspectors found 116 expired items on its shelves, while Kachi in Area 47, Lilongwe, was fined K12.5 million after 385 expired products were discovered.

Kaunda said the two businesses had been referred to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) over allegations that they attempted to bribe CFTC officers to influence the cases.

Other businesses fined include Jegaf Investments, which received a K10 million penalty, Horizon Health Malawi at K2 million.

Sanam Enterprises in Area 49, Lilongwe has been fined K1 million, while Jahabi Enterprises and Spectrum Supplies each fined K500,000.

The Commission has also ordered two of the businesses to refund affected consumers approximately K1 million as part of efforts to strengthen consumer protection and hold traders accountable for violations.

Aspolo Mussah – Staff Reporter, Lilongwe