The Automotive Brand Protection Coalition ME (ABPC) is stepping up its activities in the region. Over the course of last year, the members of ABPC — General Motors, BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Toyota and Honda — provided information and expertise that coupled with the assistance and enforcement of local authorities, led to raids in the Middle East which resulted in the seizure of over a quarter of a million counterfeit car parts.
“This is a significant amount but, unfortunately, it only represents the tip of the iceberg,” said an ABPC spokesperson.
Counterfeit car parts present a real challenge to brand owners, governments and consumers. Unlike a pirated computer operating system or a fake watch, counterfeit car parts can be dangerous for those who use them. Research conducted in Europe has shown that fake parts have contributed to accidents.
“One of the main problems is that the consumer in the Middle East is just not aware that these products are in the market place; or if they are aware, there is confusion over what exactly a fake part is. The car manufacturers are trying to educate the public, through our leaflet and website, www.nofakeparts.com, so that they can make informed and safe choices when it comes to car maintenance,” the ABPC spokesperson said.
The Coalition, as well as its members individually, is actively working with several governments and authorities in the GCC. Warren Hayday, Brand Protection Director of General Motors, commented, “At GM we have a very active brand protection program that incorporates three main strands: Active sharing of information with the various regional governments, seminars and legal action. This format has proved very successful for us and we hope that in 2005 we will have even more success.”
