290,000 packets of improperly-labelled cigarettes destroyed
Stockpiles of non-comply cigarettes which were intercepted and destroyed
The Product Compliance Department of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has ordered the destruction of 290 cases (290,000 packets) of imported cigarettes in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Branded US Mild 1 and imported by a city business, the cigarettes were destroyed in an inferno at the Lethem dumpsite in the presence of the GNBS Inspector stationed in the Region.
During routine surveillance inspections, the GNBS detected the sale of the cigarettes in the Lethem area, and the product was subsequently examined for compliance with the Tobacco Regulations of 2018.
The examination found the product to be not in compliance with labelling and marking requirements. As a result, the aforementioned quantity of the non-complying product was seized by the GNBS and was prohibited from being sold in Guyana.
After a prolonged period of storage, a decision was taken by the distributor in conjunction with the GNBS to destroy the items.
In light of this seizure and destruction, the GNBS is strongly urging importers and dealers of cigarettes to become familiar with the tobacco regulations in order to ensure imported cigarettes are fully in compliance therewith at the time of importation. Meanwhile, GNBS Inspectors will remain vigilant to ensure there is no prevalence of noncomplying cigarettes on sale in the city and in other outlying areas.
The GNBS monitors the labelling and quality of products to ensure consumer protection. In addition to cigarettes, the national standards body monitors domestic electrical/ electronic appliances, weighing and measuring devices, textiles, garments, footwear, safety helmets, safety matches, new and used tyres, gas stoves, electrical equipment and fittings, PVC pipes, furniture, Christmas trees and decorative lighting outfits, cellular phones and gold jewellery.
