​Ban on non-English label food products remains

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) says the interim ban on non-English labeled food products is still active.

In a media statement, the ICCC said the interim ban imposed on March 31, 2016, is still in force until September 17, 2017.

Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Paulus Ain, said they have received reports about certain products that are being sold in the shops with non-English packaging and labels.

He said the ban is applicable to food products and not any other product or merchandise.

The interim ban requires that all food products must have the following minimum labeling requirement in English which include:

  • Ingredients;
  • Name of packer, distributor, or importer;
  • Address of the packer, distributor or importer;
  • Country of origin; and
  • Net weight

The ICCC warns they will not hesitate to prosecute offenders who are liable to a penalty of up to K100,000 or imprisonment of up to two years. The Commission can also take action by recalling these products.

The ICCC says it periodically conducts product safety surveys in all retail shops, liaises with PNG Customs, the Provincial Health Authorities, city managers and Environmental Health Officers to enforce the ban.

Consumers are urged to report non-compliant traders.

Author: 
Cedric Patjole