Commerce Commission Warns About Fakes

The Commerce Commission has recently cautioned consumers to be alert to the sale of possible counterfeit clothing and footwear on the Trade Me website after issuing more than 70 warnings. The traders have been warned that they risk committing an offence under the Fair Trading Act if they are selling or offering for sale goods that are not genuinely manufactured 'labelled' items.

"Selling counterfeit goods harms both the consumer and legitimate businesses," said Adrian Sparrow, Commerce Commission Director of Fair Trading. "Consumers have a role to play and should exercise caution if offered a well known brand at a low price. If you are paying $50 for a brand name item that usually retails new for $200, instead of getting a prestigious label at a bargain price, it is more likely that you are paying over the odds for a cheap knock-off. The best way to ensure that you are getting the genuine article is to buy from an authorised dealer."