Businesses brand counterfeit goods at China Town – Namra

Companies operating at China Town are branding counterfeit goods locally after importing them.

The Namibia Revenue Agency (Namra) says because counterfeit products are prohibited at Namibia’s borders, Chinese companies import unbranded goods and brand them locally.

“Several questions have been raised about counterfeit goods found at China Town in Windhoek, despite being prohibited at the borders. Many such goods are smuggled in or brought in unbranded and later modified locally and are generally seized when detected,” a Namra statement reads.

Original branded goods such as Nike and Adidas are permitted, while counterfeit or replica versions are strictly prohibited, the agency says.

Suspected counterfeit goods are confiscated and verified through brand holder experts.

“The verification period is set at 10 days, but may be extended subject to the brand holder’s response,” the statement reads.

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