Consumer Group Seeks Crackdown On Counterfeit Goods

On the occasion of World Anti-Counterfeiting Day, the organisation said the issue extends beyond intellectual property violations and affects a wide range of everyday products, including food items, medicines, cosmetics, electrical goods, batteries, automotive components and digital devices.

It said counterfeit products imitate legitimate brands, while illicit products enter markets through illegal channels, bypassing regulatory and quality control systems, exposing consumers to risks.

The Foundation said risks are more severe in the case of food items such as paneer, ghee, spices and edible oils, which directly impact public health.

Referring to a May 2025 report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the European Union Intellectual Property Office, it said global trade in counterfeit and pirated goods was estimated at $467 billion, accounting for 2.3 per cent of global imports.

It also cited the ‘State of Counterfeiting in India 2025’ report by the Authentication Solution Providers' Association in collaboration with CRISIL, which found that nearly one in three consumers had encountered counterfeit products in the past year.

Founder trustee Bejon Kumar Misra said, “The spirit of Jago Grahak Jago is more relevant than ever today. Counterfeit and illicit products, ranging from medicines and cosmetics to electrical goods, can expose consumers to serious quality, safety and health risks. The impact goes beyond consumers, affecting legitimate businesses, government revenues and the economy.”

The organisation said tackling the issue requires stronger enforcement, consumer awareness, regulatory oversight and coordination among government agencies, industry and consumer groups.

It emphasised that informed consumers remain a key line of defence against counterfeit and illicit products.