In a significant stride toward ensuring consumer safety, the Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has commended the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its resolute efforts in combating counterfeit products. This follows the seizure of over 360 bales of fake diapers during an enforcement operation at Community 12 in Tema on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The CPA has described this development as a major breakthrough in the ongoing battle against counterfeit goods, which pose serious health risks to consumers.
The Operation: How It Unfolded
Acting on intelligence, the FDA enforcement team in Tema uncovered the counterfeit diapers at a residential facility. The seized goods, equivalent to two 40-foot containers, were imported by a company allegedly identified as "Natural Power." Investigations revealed that the importers attempted to deceive authorities by mislabeling the shipment on invoices as “Disposable Plywoven Bags” under HS Code 392329, instead of the correct HS Code 9619 for diapers. This deliberate misrepresentation was aimed at evading detection by Customs and FDA officials.
Further bolstering the FDA’s efforts, Customs officials impounded two additional containers suspected to contain counterfeit diapers at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) terminal in Tema. These containers, imported by FK Clearing Cleaning Logistics (trading as Ness-D Diapers), were abandoned by their clearing agent in June 2025. The CPA has expressed concerns about the scale of counterfeit diaper importation and applauded Customs officials for their vigilance.
Consumer Safety: A Victory for Ghanaian Children
The CPA estimates that the FDA's actions have potentially safeguarded over 2.5 million Ghanaian children from health risks associated with substandard diapers. Counterfeit diapers not only fail to meet safety standards but may also expose users to harmful chemicals and poor-quality materials, posing severe health implications.
Nana Prempeh Okogyeabour Aduhene, Executive Director of the CPA in charge of Media and Arbitration, issued a statement on Monday, July 28, calling for the prosecution of the importers involved in these illegal activities. He emphasized that legal action would serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar illicit practices.
Ongoing Investigations: A Call for Accountability
The CPA disclosed that it has identified two additional importers of fake diapers and will forward their details to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for further investigation. This proactive approach demonstrates the CPA's commitment to eradicating counterfeit products from Ghanaian markets.
This recent bust comes on the heels of another significant operation in April 2025, when the FDA seized and destroyed over 1 million fake diapers. These actions underscore the FDA’s unwavering dedication to consumer protection and its resolve to rid the market of harmful counterfeit goods.
Commendations and Recommendations
The CPA has lauded both the FDA and Customs officials for their vigilance and swift action in addressing this pressing issue. Their collaborative efforts have not only prevented harmful products from reaching consumers but have also sent a strong message to counterfeit syndicates operating within the country.
To ensure accountability and deter future violations, the CPA has recommended that both the FDA and Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) hand over the importers to law enforcement agencies for prosecution. Such measures are critical to upholding consumer safety and maintaining public trust in regulatory bodies.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Consumer Protection
The seizure of counterfeit diapers represents a critical milestone in Ghana’s fight against counterfeit goods. It highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration between regulatory bodies, customs officials, and intelligence agencies. Moving forward, sustained vigilance, robust enforcement mechanisms, and public awareness campaigns will be essential to safeguarding consumers from substandard products.
The CPA’s commitment to identifying and reporting counterfeit goods, coupled with the FDA’s decisive actions, reflects a unified effort to protect Ghanaian consumers from unscrupulous practices. As regulatory bodies continue to intensify their fight against counterfeit products, consumers can rest assured that their health and safety remain a top priority.
This breakthrough serves as a reminder that consumer protection is not just a regulatory mandate but a shared responsibility that requires collective effort from all stakeholders. Together, we can build a marketplace where quality and safety are paramount.
-Citinewsroom
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
