Opinion | Columnists
Counterfeit isn't a cosmetic issue
Fake products are bad, but the business can be used as a cover for terror and crime.
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:00 November 5, 2006
Fake products are bad, but the business can be used as a cover for terror and crime
The increase of the counterfeit cosmetics and toiletries business in the Gulf region to one totalling more than $210 million (Dh770 million) is an issue that needs to be seriously addressed.
Counterfeit products threaten public wellbeing as they have not been tested for safety or approved by an authoritative and reliable entity. As a matter of fact, such products have proven to be hazardous to the health of consumers.
Furthermore, the counterfeit business could be used as a cover for crime and terror. According to the World Customs Organisation, 70 per cent to 80 per cent of the profits derived from counterfeit goods from the Asia Pacific region for example, are being used to finance terror groups and organised crime.
In trying to curb this counterfeit trade it is necessary to involve wholesalers and retailers. But more importantly, educating the public of the dangers of counterfeit products is just as crucial.
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