MAKKAH, 21 August 2007 — The Ministry of Commerce in Makkah is investigating 17 commercial shops that have been found to sell counterfeit printer ink cartridges.
The ministry received a complaint from two international ink manufacturers about counterfeit ink cartridges that were carrying their logos and were being sold in the Saudi market. The fake products were being sold at a cheaper price, which had increased their popularity among unsuspecting customers.
The shops have been temporarily closed down for selling the products. Goods have been confiscated and shop owners are currently being questioned. According to a Ministry of Commerce spokesman, some of the shops had also established workshops to label and package cartridges.
He added that the ministry is keen to take the matter further and begin legal action.
