DuPont warns of fake fire-resistant clothing

DuPont has warned of fake fire-resistant clothing after taking a group of textile manufacturers to court for trademark infringement.

In the case at the Hague District Court, DuPont accused textile manufacturers of selling clothing bearing its fire-resistant branding, Nomex, which lacked fibres that protect wearers from heat. A provisional cease and desist order from the court could see fines of up to €1m ($1.2m) imposed.

"Manufacturers and employers have a responsibility to keep workforces safe at work and in order to stay vigilant, certified goods are of paramount importance," Amr El-Moniem, regional manager, MENA, DuPont Protection Technologies, told TradeArabia News Service.

Fake fire-resistant clothing, including gloves and high-visibility vests, was allegedly sold in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other countries in the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC).

The UAE has risen in prominence as a source of counterfeit products in recent years. In 2009, 73 per cent of fake drugs seized at European borders came from the UAE and since then the state has taken steps to clamp down on counterfeiters.