Government Warns Businesses Against “No Refund” Policy

Zimbabwe’s government says businesses cannot legally deny consumers refunds, warning that companies enforcing “no refund” policies could face prosecution.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, Industry and Commerce Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu said the practice is unlawful in most sectors and violates consumer protection laws.

Ndlovu explained that only limited exceptions exist, particularly in the health sector, where medicines cannot be returned after purchase for safety reasons.

He urged consumers to report businesses that display “no refund” disclaimers, saying complaints can be made to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce or the police so authorities can investigate and take action.

The minister made the remarks while outlining the government’s new Consumer Protection Policy for 2026 to 2030, which aims to strengthen consumer rights and improve accountability among businesses.