The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency has seized ten bales of used undergarments from a trading entity operating around Soweto Market in Lusaka.

The Agency seized the items valued at K20 000 last Friday following a tip-off from whistle blowers who indicated that a named entity was secretly selling used undergarments.

Agency Head of Communications Brian Hatyoka tells Byta FM News that the sale of undergarments is banned in the country as it is contrary to the provisions of the Compulsory Standard ZS 559 relating to inspection and acceptance criteria for used textile products.

Hatyoka says this standard prohibits the importation and sale of used textile products containing undergarments such as pajamas, nightgowns, ladies and gents’ briefs among others.
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He says the standard was declared compulsory to protect the safety of consumers because used textile products that are worn in very close contact with the skin may transmit fungal infections and Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Hatyoka says the Agency has however observed that some importers and traders are ignoring the ban and has warned of punitive measures.

He has also appealed to consumers to consider buying safer new undergarments to protect themselves from health risks associated with the use of used undergarments.

Byta FM