COUNTERFEIT GOODS THREATEN KZN'S ECONOMY

Low-priced imports driving up job losses, pose risks to cash-strapped consumers

- THAMI MAGUBANE

THE business community in KwaZulu-Natal is on edge over the continuing proliferation of counterfeit goods that undermine job creation, destroy existing jobs and pose serious life and health risks.

Key business chambers have expressed concerns about the influx of counterfeit products and cheap imports into the KZN market.

In a statement, Palesa Phili, the chief executive of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC, expressed deep concern about the recent surge in cheap imports and counterfeit goods entering South Africa's domestic market, which is widening the trade imbalance and placing immense pressure on our domestic industries.

"We believe this is far from a minor issue - it represents a systemic threat to the economic resilience of both the country and the province. The current situation is escalating into an economic crisis, adversely affecting critical sectors.

"We have observed the following industries struggling under this pressure, with significant impacts on operational viability and competitiveness."

Phili added that the affected industries included the paper and pulp industry, the solar manufacturing sector, automotive industry, textile and clothing industry and food and beverages sector.