Consumer group alleges unfair competition in cocoa imports, canvasses stricter regulation

A Lagos-based Consumer advocacy group, Centre for Consumer Concern, Awareness and Initiative (CCC-AI), has alleged unfair competition in importation of cocoa-based products, urging the authorities to emphasis stricter regulation to ensure a fair market.

In a statement on Monday, the Centre stated that the regulatory practice, whereby importers of cocoa-based products and dairy products get exemption from pre-shipment SONCAP certification, creates unfair competition with local manufacturers of same products. 

It also stated that “weak enforcement of regulatory guidelines has created a regulatory gap that allows non-compliant cocoa-based products to access the Nigerian market.”

The CCC-AI also shared a similar concern on the recent global recall of batches of contaminated SMA infant formula. It said, “CCC-AI notes that although details around the infant milk issue continue to unfold, both matters reveal a deepening crisis in Nigeria’s consumer protection and regulatory enforcement landscape, particularly around imported food and cocoa-based products.

“These are not isolated incidents,” CCC-AI stated. “They point to a pattern where regulatory vigilance is weakening, corporate compliance is inconsistent, and consumers are being placed at unacceptable risk.” 

The consumer group “urges the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection (FCCPC) to establish and coordinate a joint task force with LASCOPA, NAFDAC, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Nigeria Customs Service and consumer advocacy groups on harmonizing regulations and address product risks management controls.”

The group also urged “brands and importers to take responsibility and prioritize Nigerian consumer safety.” “Nigerian consumers deserve safe products, fair markets, and regulators who act decisively in the public interest,” CCC-AI stated.