Mozambique Grapples With Counterfeit Liquor Epidemic
MOZAMBIQUE – A staggering 80% of popular alcoholic drinks sold in Mozambique are counterfeit, according to the National Inspectorate of Economic Activities (INAE).
The widespread sale of fake liquor, often at significantly lower prices than original drinks, has fueled corruption and undermined the economy.
Consumers’ health is also at risk due to the dubious quality of the counterfeit drinks.
INAE Director Ana Rita Freitas highlighted the institution’s limitations in combating the problem. “We lack the training and equipment to conduct laboratory tests to verify the authenticity of drinks,” she said.
Freitas revealed that corruption within INAE itself has hindered efforts to combat counterfeit liquor. “With all due respect, there are a lot of crooks in this area. I began to notice that my team was favouring this inspection because they were making money,” she noted.
The seized alcoholic drinks were often stolen and resold, while merchandise handed over to the Tax Authority (AT) was not properly accounted for. This has fueled the market for counterfeit products.
To address the issue, the National Association of Producers and Importers of Alcoholic Beverages has urged the government to implement awareness campaigns, strengthen legislation and provide training for inspectors and technicians.
Freitas emphasized the need for institutional clarity in the fight against smuggling, proposing that labeling responsibilities be transferred from the AT to INAE.
Mozambique authorities are under pressure to take decisive action against the counterfeit liquor trade, with calls for collaboration with international experts to combat the problem.
