Russia expecting "surge" in fake products

Russia is expecting a surge in counterfeit goods in the wake of the new customs union with Belarus and Kazakhstan, according to a report on the RIA Novosti news service.

The customs union could lead to an increase in counterfeits because Kazakhstan's border with Kyrgyzstan is recognised as a key conduit for entry of Chinese- and Indian-made counterfeits. Once border controls between Kazakhstan and Russia are lifted these fakes could easily find their way onto the Russian market, the article contends.

A survey commissioned by non-profit industry group RusBrand estimates that counterfeit goods accounted for 6 per cent of Russia's retail turnover, with the alcohol, apparel and cosmetics sectors particularly affected.


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