FCCPC raises the alarm as substandard sugar floods Nigerian markets

By Chinelo Obogo

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised concerns over the widespread presence of substandard and unregistered sugar products in Nigerian markets.

These products, predominantly smuggled from Brazil, include brands such as Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S. Joao, Alvean and Arapora Bionergia. 

In a statement on Wednesday, Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, disclosed that investigations conducted across the South-West and North-East regions revealed numerous sugar products lacking essential labeling, including production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the mandatory National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration. 

Ijagwu emphasised that the absence of Vitamin A fortification in these products poses serious health risks to Nigerians.

“The absence of this fortification exposes consumers to significant health issues, including blindness and heightened susceptibility to infections, especially among vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women,” he stated. 

Beyond health concerns, the FCCPC noted the adverse economic impact of smuggled sugar. *“Importers of these substandard products engage in price manipulation to the detriment of genuine producers and consumers. This not only undermines the sustainability of the Nigerian sugar industry but also erodes consumer trust,” Ijagwu said. 

He further highlighted the role of porous borders, particularly those shared with Cameroon and Benin Republic, in enabling smuggling activities. These challenges, he said, complicate enforcement and hinder the traceability of such products. 

The FCCPC reassured Nigerians of its commitment to combating the menace.

“In line with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, the FCCPC is intensifying enforcement in collaboration with NAFDAC, the Nigeria Customs Service, and other stakeholders. This includes enhanced market inspections and disruption of smuggling networks,” Ijagwu noted. 

To safeguard consumers, the FCCPC encouraged Nigerians to verify sugar products for proper labeling, including NAFDAC registration and evidence of Vitamin A fortification. The commission also urged consumers to report suspicious or unregistered products through its email.