26/01/2009 - Toolkit to protect firms from fakes
The Government has launched a new toolkit aimed at protecting businesses from buying counterfeit goods.
The Supply Chain Toolkit, which was launched by David Lammy, minister for intellectual property, offers companies advice on how to better protect themselves from the dangers of fake goods, such as fashion accessories and electronics, entering business supply chains.
Global counterfeiting and piracy is now worth $200 billion (£146 billion) per year, with improved technology and communications fuelling its growth - making it one of the biggest problems for businesses of all kinds around the world.
The kit, produced by the Intellectual Property Office's IP Crime Group, includes a step-by-step approach on what action should be taken if counterfeits are found within the supply chain and guidance on how to strengthen and protect IP assets.
Mr Lammy said: "IP crime is a serious global issue with tens of billions of pounds worth of counterfeit goods seized across national borders each year.
"With recent research finding that nearly a quarter of all small and medium-sized enterprises were affected by counterfeiting, this toolkit offers practical advice to businesses to help them better protect themselves from IP crime, especially during these already challenging times."
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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