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Genuine, fake goods on display at Hanoi exhibit
17 October 2023
The Vietnam Directorate of Market Surveillance (VDMS) opened the “Recognition of Protected Trademarks” exhibit at 62 Trang Tien Street in Hanoi on October 11, 2023, running until October 17, 2023. The exhibit features over 500 products by leading brands, including Piaggio, Hyundai, Abbott, Pantene and Unilever.
More than a showcase of quality products from globally established brands, it’s an initiative with education as a purpose. Genuine products are on display alongside their counterfeit versions. VDMS, which is holding the exhibit in commemoration of its 5th anniversary, aims to educate the public on trademark protection, counterfeiting and the differences between genuine and fake or imitation products.
Linh Duy Mai, Senior Associate and Head of IP Enforcement Practice, Tilleke & Gibbins, Hanoi
“The counterfeiting situation in Vietnam is still serious, with online infringement exacerbating the issue. However, there are positive signs as authorities are stepping up efforts to crack down on counterfeits, indicating a commitment to addressing this problem,” said Linh Duy Mai, senior associate and head of IP enforcement practice at Tilleke & Gibbins in Hanoi.
He added: “This exhibit can effectively contribute to public education on counterfeiting and trademark protection due to its visual impact, hands-on experience, awareness-raising potential and its role in showcasing government commitment to combating counterfeits.”
Beginning in 2022, Vietnam has been witnessing an uptick in counterfeiting activities, mainly in the online space where trademark infringers have moved to sell knockoff goods – from cosmetics to cigarettes and fertilizers.
On March 29, 2023, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang signed Decision No. 319/QD-TTg, approving the Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Protection in ecommerce by 2025 Plan.
- Espie Angelica A. de Leon
