The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has revealed that more than 133 products currently being sold in Ghana lack registration from either the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) or the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), sparking concerns about consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
In a statement issued on Thursday, May 21, the agency said a recent market surveillance exercise uncovered widespread violations, with products bypassing mandatory testing and certification before reaching consumers.
The CPA commended the GSA for recent enforcement actions against substandard goods, including the closure of a mattress manufacturing company accused of using unapproved materials, as well as operations at China Mall to remove non‑compliant products. These measures, the agency noted, reflect renewed efforts to safeguard consumers and uphold Ghana’s standards and quality assurance systems.
Despite these interventions, the CPA warned that the influx of unregistered products continues to pose a serious threat to public health and the local economy. Many of the items are believed to enter the country through illegal routes, allowing importers to evade taxes and duties while creating unfair competition for businesses that comply with regulations.
The agency stressed that products which do not undergo proper regulatory assessments may expose consumers to significant health and safety risks. It therefore called on the GSA, FDA, Ghana Revenue Authority, and other state institutions to strengthen collaboration and intensify enforcement operations to rid the market of non‑compliant goods.
The CPA pledged its support for ongoing regulatory efforts, offering surveillance data and assistance with public education initiatives aimed at improving awareness of product standards and consumer protection measures.
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