Togo: Mandatory checks on product labelling begin from November 2024
Starting November 4, 2024, mandatory product labeling checks will fully come into effect in Togo. This measure was reiterated during a recent meeting in Lomé between the Ministry of Trade and the relevant importers, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the new secure labeling regulations.
Established in September 2020 as part of the Automated Marking Solution (SAM), this initiative, led by the interministerial committee for combating smuggling and counterfeiting, aims to strengthen tax revenue security, improve product traceability, and protect Togolese consumers from illegal imports. From November onwards, all products sold in the national territory must bear secure labeling. This particularly applies to alcoholic beverages, sweets, tobacco, and fruit juices. Products lacking this label will be considered illegal and subject to severe penalties.
According to Esso-Wavana Adoyi, president of the committee overseeing the SAM, this labeling system is a crucial lever for ensuring fair competition in the Togolese market. It also enhances tax collection and provides additional resources to fund development projects in the country. Thus, the implementation of this control addresses significant economic challenges while contributing to consumer protection.
To allow merchants and importers to adapt to this requirement, a grace period of 15 days will be granted from November 4 before strict penalties are enforced. These penalties mainly involve the seizure of non-compliant products, encouraging economic operators to quickly comply with the new rules.
Awareness campaigns are also planned to inform economic operators about the benefits of secure labeling and the risks associated with non-compliance. This initiative is part of a broader approach aimed at securing supply chains while optimizing the transparency of commercial transactions in Togo.
