Trade in counterfeits is a global challenge that has affected brand reputation, diluted market competition and undermined Intellectual Property rights (IPR).

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Mr. Richard Ngatia hosted a delegation from the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) led by ACA Executive Director Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge and senior management team.

The two Organizations resolved to heighten collaboration towards combating counterfeiting and dealings in counterfeit goods.

ACA will work closely with KNCCI through the Chamber Intellectual Property and Legal & Regulatory Committees to intensify sensitization campaigns targeting both traders and consumers, build the capacity of importers on IPR recordation, conduct research on counterfeiting and spearhead legal and policy reforms.

Findings of the first ever national baseline survey on illicit trade conducted between October 2019 and February 2020 by ACA revealed that trade in counterfeits cost the country over US$900 million annually in tax revenue, with 7500 job losses estimate in 2018 alone. Commonly counterfeited products include alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, footware & clothing, electronic equipment, beauty products and medicines.