Zimbabwe’s Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) is cracking down on businesses refusing to offer card payment options, declaring it a violation of consumer rights and national law. The commission is launching an enforcement blitz, targeting fuel retailers first, to ensure businesses provide Point-of-Sale (POS) machines that accept cards in both Zimbabwean dollars (ZiG) and US dollars.
This action follows inspections revealing that 80% of 27 service stations surveyed lacked POS machines, restricting consumer choice and potentially enabling unfair business practices. By denying card payments, businesses can force customers to use a specific currency, possibly at an unfavorable exchange rate, or push them towards less secure cash transactions.
The CPC asserts that businesses without POS machines are violating the Consumer Protection Act and the Finance Act, which mandate offering electronic payment options. They aim to protect consumers from manipulation and ensure transparency in transactions.
The announcement also triggered debates. While many support protecting consumer rights, some question the feasibility of enforcing POS usage across all businesses, especially smaller ones with limited resources or unreliable internet access. Others highlight that larger companies have long ignored these regulations without consequences. There are also calls to address the root issue of the dual currency system, advocating for a single, stable currency.
The CPC’s emphasis on mandatory POS usage is a reflection of growing demands for transparency and accountability in business transactions. As digital economies mature, the insistence on electronic payment methods isn’t just about consumer protection—it’s about building a modern, traceable financial ecosystem. But while the intent is commendable, its practical implementation remains a challenge.
Small businesses in remote areas often grapple with erratic power supply, unreliable internet, and the cost of maintaining electronic systems. Without tailored support or subsidies, these enterprises might struggle to comply, even with the best intentions. Critics argue that selective enforcement—targeting small vendors while turning a blind eye to violations by larger corporations—undermines the rule of law and erodes trust in regulatory bodies.
To bridge this gap, more adaptive digital solutions are gaining traction, especially in sectors where customer relationships and recurring payments are central. One such solution is Flexible Subscription Management, which allows businesses to streamline recurring transactions while accommodating varied customer needs. Whether it’s utilities, online services, or even small-scale retail with frequent buyers, this model reduces friction and builds consistency in payments.
With the right tools, businesses—large and small—can automate billing, offer multiple payment options, and ensure compliance with finance regulations without needing to invest in complex infrastructure. This kind of flexibility not only supports consumer rights but also empowers merchants to grow sustainably in an increasingly digital economy.
Despite the varying opinions, the CPC is determined to enforce compliance. Businesses found violating the law will face penalties, including Compliance Notices and potential legal action. The CPC urges consumers to report non-compliant businesses, emphasizing the importance of upholding consumer rights.
Focusing on the fuel retail industry first, the CPC aims to set a precedent and encourage wider adoption of POS machines across Zimbabwean businesses. This enforcement drive is a significant step towards protecting consumers and promoting fair trading practices.
The CPC acknowledges concerns about the practicality of enforcing POS usage across all businesses, particularly smaller enterprises and those in areas with limited internet connectivity. They are committed to working with stakeholders to find solutions that balance consumer protection with the operational realities of businesses.
In a country facing economic challenges, protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair trading practices are crucial for stability and growth. The CPC’s enforcement action sends a clear message: businesses must prioritise consumer welfare and contribute to a transparent and inclusive marketplace.
