Kenya loses Sh40 billion to counterfeit goods annually

By Winsley Masese

Kenya loses close to Sh40 billion every year to counterfeit and sub-standard goods, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) National Chairman Steve Smith has said.

Mr Smith said hundreds of workers in local companies have lost their jobs due to stiff competition from the products.

The Eveready East Africa managing director said his company was forced to lay off 100 workers.

"Sub-standard and counterfeit goods which find their way into the country have a negative impact on every sector," he explained.

Smith identified sub-standard medicine as the most risky as they bring health complications.

To curb this, he reiterated the need to engage correct enforcement agents, since goods come to the country through means like air and can be detected.

This, he said, can be done through the existing laws to encourage investments in manufacturing sector.

Smith expressed hope that the 2008 Counterfeit Bill would help fight the contraband products.

Speaking at a Kisumu Hotel during the Nyanza and Western Kenya KMA luncheon, Smith called for dialogue between MPs and manufacturers to address the problem.

"There is need to discuss with MPs on business related issues to develop immediate reforms in the sector," he argued.

He said there are enough financial resources to employ inspectors to do the work.

"Only through this can we gain credibility, competitiveness and improve our business strategy in the sector," he argued.

 

 

Read all about: Kenya Association of Manufacturers KAM

 

 

---