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| Business |
| MBS warns firms |
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by
Mc Donald Chapalapata, 11 March 2003
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Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) has warned it would close down companies and industries that are deliberately flouting provisions of the MBS Act on producing quality and standard products.
MBS Director General Austin Khulumula spoke on Friday when he was presenting certificates of Marks of Quality to companies in the central region that have qualified to receive the certificates.
“During the quality surveillance audits that have been carried out in the past months, it transpired that some companies are deliberately flouting the provisions of the MBS Act. We shall never compromise our reputation with respect to promotion of quality, safety, health and environment and will suspend or close operations of any company that may fail in this category,” said Khulumula without disclosing the names of the company.
He thanked consumers who are vigilant and provide the bureau with information on problem products that appear on the market.
Khulumula announced that a total of 31 companies have entered into the quality standard scheme with 17 new companies from the South and 14 from the North and Centre.
“We regard this development as significant. These figures mark a significant development in the history of standardisation and quality assurance programmes in Malawi,” he said.
He assured consumers that, while going about assisting the industry in the field of standardisation, testing and quality assurance, MBS will maintain its position that only safe, healthy and quality products are delivered to consumers for their consumption.
Speaking on behalf of the companies that received the certificates, General manger of Promat Limited Elijah Kumwenda said it is pleasing to note that MBS would take action against local manufacturers and importers that either make or distribute substandard products.
“We appeal to MBS to be more aggressive in this matter and work jointly with Consumer Association of Malawi (Cama) if possible and the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) with respect to imports,” said Kumwenda.
He said unscrupulous businesses must not be allowed to put more lives of people at risk.
“Consumers are also urged to learn to say No to poor quality products. A cheap price today may cost you dearly in the nearest future,” said Kumwenda.
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