Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has seized 34 bales of used underwear valued at K37,350 from a shop in Lusaka for contravening compulsory standards governing the importation and sale of used textile products.
The enforcement operation, conducted last week, followed a tip-off from whistleblowers who reported that the shop was selling used undergarments in violation of Zambian Standard (ZS) 559, which provides inspection and acceptance criteria for used textile products.
In a statement, ZCSA Manager-Communications and Public Relations, Brian Hatyoka, said the affected shop had been directed to meet the cost of disposing of the seized products.
Mr. Hatyoka warned that the Agency would take stern action against businesses illegally importing and selling used textile products containing undergarments and nightwear.
He said such products pose health risks to consumers, including skin rashes, fungal infections and sexually transmitted infections due to their close contact with the skin.
“The Agency is urging consumers to be vigilant and report to the nearest ZCSA office, upon encountering such banned products on the market,” Mr. Hatyoka urged.
“Consumers must buy new undergarments and nightwear so that they become the only users.”
Mr. Hatyoka noted that ZS 559 and Statutory Instrument No. 120 of 2006 prohibits the importation and sale of used textile products containing undergarments and nightwear.
“This standard was declared compulsory to protect the health of consumers because used textile products that are worn in very close contact with the skin may cause ailments such as skin rash, fungal infections and sexually transmitted infections, among other ailments,” he stated.
“As an enforcer of Compulsory Standards, ZCSA remains vigilant in its duty of protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with non-compliant products.”
Meanwhile, the Agency urged pupils to prioritize their health and safety by consuming safe products and purchasing goods from trusted sources.
Mr. Hatyoka noted that learners consume various products daily, including food and drinks, making it important for them to avoid expired and suspicious products.
He said this when the Agency made a presentation to pupils and teachers at Kasisi Girls Secondary School on Saturday, October 31, 2026, during the school’s Annual Awards Giving Ceremony for best-performing pupils.
