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The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has released a statement claiming that they seized counterfeit goods worth Sh 50 million from China Square Mall.
The business hub which sits on Kenyatta University’s UniCity Mall is accused of copyright infringement after Smithmo Company Ltd, a Kenyan company claimed ownership of the trademark finder, a brand name whose goods are sold by the retailer.
The authority then said that it had seized goods, including hardware materials and tools owned by the brand owner.
“ACA received a formal complaint regarding “FINDER branded tools” from M/s Smithmo Company Ltd, who holds the registered trademark of “FINDER” in Kenya,” the statement read in part.
The Authority clarified that the raid was in fact conducted on February 16, in which hardware tools worth millions were recovered.
“In-situ seizures of goods with an approximate value of Ksh50 million owned by the brand owner occurred. The Authority takes the protection of intellectual property rights and fair trade practices seriously,” ACA stated.
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In a statement released on February 26, the business announced that it would close to review its operations amid piling pressure from Trade CS Moses Kuria.
Last week, Mr. Kuria made it clear that he believes that Chinese investors should focus on manufacturing in Kenya, rather than trading.
“I have today given an offer to Prof Wainaina the VC Kenyatta University to buy out the lease for China Square, Unicity Mall and hand it over to the Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa & Eastleigh Traders Association. We welcome Chinese investors to Kenya but as manufacturers not traders,” Kuria stated.
The CS then appeared to change his mind telling the business that he would help them set up a manufacturing plant.
“I will assist China Square owner Mr. Cheng to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya and work on a distribution partnership with Gikomba, Nyamakima, Eastleigh, Kamukunji, Muthurwa and River Road Traders,” he said.