The copying and sale of branded products is a major problem both locally in Blaenau Gwent and throughout the world. Counterfeiting reduces the demand for genuine products and consequently effects the local and national economy – in effect businesses close and jobs are lost. Additionally, many counterfeit products are unsafe as they are not subject to the stringent controls and testing that genuine products have to go through. (This particularly relates to such products as toys, cosmetics, cigarettes, vehicle parts etc). In order to remove counterfeit products from the marketplace checks are carried out at markets, car boot sales, shops and factories. If counterfeit products are found sellers are often arrested and eventually prosecuted.
Past inspections have revealed the sale of a whole range of counterfeit goods being sold in Blaenau Gwent including toys, cigarettes, films and games, clothing, jewellery, watches, vodka, footwear, glasses and perfume.
Anyone with any information relating to the sale of counterfeit products they can pass the information on to the Department by email on trading.standards@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk or ring 01495 356138.
