The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has warned of a nationwide crackdown on businesses dealing in counterfeit products amid concerns over a surge in the sale of fake goods in Kenyan markets.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The Authority on Wednesday, June 10, warned that fake products would be seized without a court order as long as the process follows the provisions of the Anti-Counterfeit Act, 2008.

ACA clarified that its inspectors are legally empowered to enter premises, conduct searches, and seize goods to be counterfeit without any legal intervention.

"A court ruling is not required before counterfeit goods are seized, but due process applies throughout the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings," ACA clarified.

📌 What You Need to Know

The Authority urged traders and other members of the public to familiarise themselves with the Anti-Counterfeit Act , noting that the law outlines the rights, obligations, and procedures governing investigations and enforcement actions.

According to the ACA, counterfeit products are goods deliberately manufactured, packaged, or sold to imitate genuine brands without the authorisation of the intellectual property owner.

"Counterfeiting violates intellectual property rights and undermines legitimate brands that have invested heavily in quality, innovation, and consumer trust over time," the ACA noted.

However, the Authority noted that legal safeguards exist for traders only if investigations establish that seized goods are genuine, which will see the products returned to the owner.

“Counterfeit goods are not released back into the market once confirmed to be counterfeit. They are handled in accordance with the law, including court-directed destruction or disposal where applicable,” the Authority added.

The announcement comes just a day after a raid on the Nairobi Central Business District shop belonging to popular businesswoman and social media personality Shiquo Hii Style .

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke