National Consumer Day: Fight Against Smuggled and Counterfeit Goods with Mr. Hem Kumar Pande, Former Secretary, Dept. of Consumer Affairs, GoI and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE

The Spaces focused on the grave challenges posed by smuggled and counterfeit goods on National Consumer Day. Mr. Haim Kumar Pandey, a former Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, discussed the global and national scale of illicit trade, emphasizing sectors most affected like FMCG, textiles, and tobacco. Key dangers include health risks and economic impacts. Discussions revolved around consumer protection measures and the vital role of technology in combating counterfeits, delineating consumer and law enforcement responsibilities. Mr. Pandey underscored the need for a united consumer front and proposed enhancing government efforts through centralized enforcement like a Central Intellectual Property Security Force.

Discussion Summary on the Fight Against Smuggled and Counterfeit Goods

Introduction

On the occasion of National Consumer Day, an important discussion was held focusing on the battle against smuggled and counterfeit goods. The special guest for this event was Mr. Haim Kumar Pandey, former Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, and an advisory member of Ficky Cascade.

Scope of Illicit Trade

Mr. Pandey highlighted the alarming size of illicit trade both nationally and globally. It's estimated to constitute 10% of global trade, roughly around 3 trillion USD, impacting sectors such as FMCG, packaged food, personal care products, alcohol, tobacco, and textiles most severely. This illicit trade not only includes counterfeit goods but also relates to issues like money laundering, bribery, and narcotics.

Risks of Counterfeit and Smuggled Goods

The primary dangers posed by these goods include significant health and safety risks, environmental hazards, economic impacts through reduced revenue, and increased public spending. Counterfeit medicines, for instance, pose serious health risks due to incorrect dosages and harmful substances. Real-world situations like fake malaria drugs and baby formulas highlight these dangers.

Consumer Protection and Awareness

Consumers can protect themselves by ensuring the legitimacy of products, looking out for pricing discrepancies as a warning sign for fakes, and leveraging awareness initiatives like Consumer Protection Acts that offer rights such as safety, informed choices, and redressal of grievances.

Role of Technology

Technology plays a crucial role in combating counterfeit goods, through the use of QR codes, RFID tags, blockchain, and AI-powered tools. However, those involved in illicit trade often manage to stay a step ahead, hence enforcement and regulatory bodies need to employ advanced technology as well to counter these threats.

Government and Agency Involvement

Effective cooperation among multiple agencies is crucial. Mr. Pandey suggested creating a central Intellectual Property Security Force to unify efforts across national and international levels. It is also imperative for punishment for counterfeit activities to be severe and deterrent.

Role of Ficky Cascade

Ficky Cascade is actively involved in enhancing consumer awareness and supporting law enforcement in tackling illicit trade. They organize various campaigns and bring best practices from global and national perspectives. Ficky Cascade also celebrates days such as Anti-Smuggling Day and Anti-Counterfeiting Day to spread awareness.

Audience Interaction

Listeners were encouraged to use platforms like the helpline 1915 to report counterfeit goods, and the importance of collective consumer actions was emphasized. Questions from the audience revolved around how consumers can protect their rights and what steps are needed to enhance grievance redressal mechanisms.

Conclusion

The discussion underscored the importance of united consumer actions and the responsibility of both consumers and sellers in combatting counterfeit goods. The role of technology, stringent law enforcement, and continuous awareness campaigns are vital. By empowering consumers through education and awareness, a significant impact can be made in fighting against smuggled and counterfeit goods.