The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (MCIL) has acknowledged the presence of counterfeit Samoan products in the market.

Blue Label Sandals, a renowned Samoan footwear brand is currently facing a counterfeit crisis after a Chinese company allegedly copied its packaging to mislead consumers.

In response to questions from the Samoa Observer, MCIL's Acting Chief Executive Officer Houlton Faasau stated that the Ministry receives information regarding counterfeit goods through "either inspections and complaints." The Ministry emphasised that once a complaint is received, it is assigned to the relevant divisions for investigation.

"The Fair Trading, Codex Consumer Protection, and Metrology Division (FTCCPMD) in charge of fair trading and consumer protection usually take the lead in MCIL investigations regarding complaints of such nature," stated Faasau.

The Ministry also stressed the importance of complainants providing detailed evidence to assist investigations. "It is important for any complainant who seeks the assistance of the Ministry to provide full details and evidence of the counterfeit products and the identity of the person or company manufacturing or selling such counterfeit products to assist the Ministry in its investigation and any resultant action."

In cases where counterfeit goods infringe upon trademarks registered under Samoa’s Intellectual Property Act 2011, the Registry of Companies and Intellectual Properties (RCIP) works alongside FTCCPMD. "If the counterfeit goods affect goods sold under a Trade Mark registered on the Samoa Register of Trade Marks then the Division in charge of Trade Marks namely the Registry of Companies and Intellectual Properties (RCIP) will also intervene and work hand in hand with FTCCPMD," the Ministry said.

However, MCIL noted that RCIP cannot take action if a trademark is not registered on the Samoa Register of Trade Marks.

The Ministry urged consumers and businesses to remain vigilant and report suspected counterfeit products to protect local industries and maintain consumer trust.