Agency destroys Sh100m fake cargo

Anti-Counterfeit Agency officials with copies of books at the offices of Fast Printing and General Supplies along Haile Selassie Avenue on February 27, 2014. PHOTO | DENISH OCHIENG

What you need to know:

  • ACA acting Deputy Director Agnes Karingu said the exercise demonstrated the government’s commitment to protecting businesses from losses experienced due to intellectual property theft.

The Anti-Counterfeit Agency (ACA) yesterday destroyed goods worth Sh100 million as it intensifies the fight against poor quality products.

The goods had been seized by the authority over the last three months from different parts across the city, mainly in Nairobi’s Industrial Area and the central business district.

Popular brands
The goods destroyed at EPZ Athi River included fast-moving consumer products, electrical gadgets, clothing and apparel, and stationery, which were imitations of popular local and international brands.

ACA acting Deputy Director Agnes Karingu said the exercise demonstrated the government’s commitment to protecting businesses from losses experienced due to intellectual property theft.

Loss of revenue

“We understand the impact that counterfeiting has on the economy. From loss of tax revenues and jobs to reduction in the amount of investments from both local and international businesses as well as exposing Kenyans to dangers,” she Ms Karingu.

She said the agency has increased surveillance through collaboration with different law enforcement agencies as well as officials from ministries, departments and agencies, and the private sector to fight counterfeiting.