Nakuru traders raise alarm over counterfeit goods

NAKURU, KENYA: The Kenya Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Nakuru chapter has decried an increase in counterfeit goods, which they said threaten to cripple the manufacturing industry.

According to the chapter chairman Joseph Gichuru, the national and county governments have not done enough to stop counterfeit goods flooding the local market, denying government taxes.

"We call upon the relevant government ministry and the anti-counterfeit agency to step up a serious war against counterfeits in all parts of the country," said Gichuru.

He added: "Counterfeits have also discouraged foreign companies who want to invest in Kenya. These fake goods undercut Kenya's growing and diversifying economy, reduce foreign direct investment by making it hard for investors to transfer technologies and cost local manufacturers millions of shillings."

He said importation of substandard goods had an adverse effect on the economy, the survival and sustainability of local industry and the much needed employment.

Addressing members' meeting in Nakuru on Tuesday night, Gichuru warned that counterfeit businesses also posed a serious danger to consumers, adding that many accidents on the roads are caused by sub-standard spare parts imported or locally manufactured as counterfeits.

Encouraging Kenyans to buy locally manufactured goods, Gichuru said buying genuine Kenyan products would boost the economy and generate more jobs.