Past Events

Tuesday, 19^th November, 2024 | 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Join us for an enlightening Twitter Space session focusing on “Combating Illicit Trade through Effective Enforcement” featuring Mr. P C Jha, Advisor, FICCI CASCADE & Former Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, scheduled for Tuesday, 19th November 2024 from 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm. This discussion will delve into the pressing issue of illicit trade and the role of law enforcement in curbing this mounting hazard.

Mr. Jha’s distinguished expertise adds depth to our discourse, highlighting the pivotal role of enforcement in not only uncovering the challenges posed by illicit trade but also in identifying actionable strategies to strengthen efforts against it. The session will provide valuable insights into the current enforcement landscape, offering perspectives on how law enforcement can adapt to effectively dismantle illicit trade networks, safeguard national revenues, and support legitimate businesses.

Twitter Space session aims to raise awareness and catalyze dialogue on international cooperation to combat this pervasive issue.

Together, let’s explore pathways to strengthen enforcement measures and safeguard our communities from the perils of illicit trade.

Mark your calendar and join us on Twitter Space to participate in the engaging discussion.

24^th October, 2024 | FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi

Consumers are a vital part of any ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the development of a nation. The proliferation of counterfeit goods undermines consumer trust and significantly hampers the ability of legitimate businesses to compete on a level playing field. This creates an unfair market environment. Moreover, the trade in counterfeit goods poses serious risks to consumer safety and well-being, further complicating efforts to ensure a healthy, thriving economy.

To address this critical issue, FICCI CASCADE, in collaboration with Amazon, organized a seminar aimed at raising awareness about the detrimental effects of counterfeiting. The seminar emphasized on fostering partnership and cooperation among various stakeholders in the fight against counterfeit goods. The discussions underscored the importance of consumer trust, sharing best practices and addressing the challenges faced in protecting brands, particularly in the digital space.

During the inaugural session, Mr. B. Shankar Jaiswal, Joint Commissioner of Police (Tech, Cyber & Licensing), Delhi Police, highlighted how artificial intelligence has become a game-changer in recent years. AI is no longer just a tool, but a powerful resource enabling both brands and consumers to quickly identify threats and verify product authenticity. Illicit trade, including counterfeiting and smuggling, remains a complex global issue, with an estimated annual cost of $1.8 trillion.

Mr. Jaiswal emphasized that the police play a critical role in protecting brands, acting as the frontline defense against counterfeiting and criminal networks. Through proactive investigations, they help safeguard businesses, protect consumers, and uphold the integrity of the marketplace.

While delivering the welcome address, Mr. Deep Chand, Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi & Advisor, FICCI CASCADE accentuated that the rapid expansion of online marketplaces has opened new pathways for counterfeiters and smugglers to infiltrate global supply chains, posing serious threats to both businesses and consumers. From children’s toys to essential medical supplies, consumers are increasingly vulnerable to unsafe and counterfeit products. This troubling trend highlights the urgent need for stronger regulatory frameworks and more effective enforcement to protect public safety and preserve brand integrity.

Ms. Katharine Lister, Director of Worldwide Customer Trust External Relations at Amazon, highlighted that through initiatives like the Mission GraHAQ campaign, Amazon has reached nearly 3 million people, educating them on safe online shopping practices and the dangers of counterfeit goods. She emphasized that collaboration between the private sector, customs agencies, and law enforcement is necessary in intercepting counterfeiters early in the supply chain and preventing their products from crossing borders.

Mr. Suvashis Choudhary, Former Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police and Chief Security Commissioner of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, as well as a Think Tank Member of FICCI CASCADE, shared his insights on the importance of strengthening collaboration with enforcement agencies to more effectively address the challenges of global trade and counterfeiting. He emphasized that collective efforts, supported by targeted workshops, are crucial for driving meaningful change and creating a lasting, positive impact in the fight against illicit trade.

Mr. Sumit Kapoor, Brand Protection Strategic Partnership Manager, Amazon APAC mentioned that having witnessed three decades of India’s transformation, our country’s journey reflects significant changes in the social landscape, advancements in ecology and infrastructure, and the dynamic growth of our regulatory and judicial systems. These developments have laid the foundation for more robust strategies in brand protection and counterfeit prevention.

The seminar featured a Panel Discussion on “Best Practices and Challenges in Brand Protection.” Panellist, Mr. Ameet Dutta, Co-Chair- IP Committee and Partner at Saikrishna & Associates, shared his insights, stating that while counterfeiting has traditionally been a physical issue, the growth of e- commerce has prompted the development of a structured system to address digital infringement. He noted that the rise of online marketplaces has led to the creation of an institutionalized network focused on quickly removing infringing products, marking a significant shift in our approach to brand protection.

Mr. Arindom Hazarika, Senior Counsel, Trademarks & Brand Protection, South Asia emphasized that effective brand protection enforcement must address both online and offline platforms. He pointed out that the complexity of online transactions creates significant challenges in identifying and assessing counterfeit products. Mr. Hazarika stressed the importance of collaboration and raising awareness about illicit trade, particularly among small businesses. Empowering these businesses with the knowledge and tools they need is essential to collectively combat counterfeiting in our markets.

Ms. Swarnika Rawat, Brand Protection Unit Operations – Lead, Beiersdorf shed light on the importance of educating and training sales teams and on-ground employees to recognize suspicious activities. This proactive approach strengthens the fight against counterfeiting and smuggling. She highlighted that effective brand protection requires a holistic strategy, combining vigilant monitoring of both online and offline markets to stay ahead of the ever-evolving landscape of infringement.

Mr. Pavan Duggal, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, Expert Authority in Cyberlaw, Cyber Security Law & Emerging Tech Law engaged in a fireside chat with Ms. Katharine Lister, Director of Worldwide Customer Trust External Relations, Amazon. The discussion highlighted the vital importance of transparency and authenticity in fostering lasting relationships with consumers. Both experts underlined that when businesses prioritize transparency and ensure the integrity of their products and services, they not only build consumer trust but also enhance brand loyalty. By embracing these values, companies can effectively combat the challenges of counterfeit goods and create a more secure and reliable marketplace for their customers.

The seminar also featured a panel discussion on “The Power of Collaboration: Strategies to Combat Counterfeiting.” During the discussion, Mr. John Cabeca, U.S. IP Counsellor for South Asia, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), American Embassy stated that counterfeit products not only damage brand integrity but also pose serious risks to public safety, making it imperative that brand protection should be considered as a matter of public welfare in the fight against smuggling and illicit trade. To effectively combat the growing menace of counterfeiting, Mr. Cabeca highlighted the need for intentional collaboration between governments and industries, sharing best practices to protect markets and consumers from illicit trade.

Mr. Anuj Bedi, Senior Counsel Brand Protection Indian sub-continent and Middle East, Puma Sports India Pvt Ltd shared his perspective that the battle against counterfeiting is not limited to one domain, it’s essential to integrate strategies that address both online threats and offline realities to safeguard brand integrity. Collaboration across online and offline platforms is needed to effectively challenge counterfeiting and make a greater impact on brand protection.

Ms. Atika Prasad, Intellectual Property Attorney, Wahl Clipper Corporation opined that in the battle against illicit trade, understanding the evolving nature of counterfeit products is vital for effective protection. She stressed the importance of leveraging technology to combat counterfeiting, advocating for the use of authentication methods such as holograms and QR codes on packaging. These tools, are not just innovations but essential defences that help distinguish genuine products from illicit fakes, playing a key role in safeguarding both businesses and consumers from the dangers of counterfeit goods.

Ms. Mrunmaiy Abroal, Head of External Relations, Customer Trust, Amazon India delivered the vote of thanks and highlighted that counterfeiting is a challenge that demands a unified approach. She emphasized that fostering collaboration across various sectors and sharing best practices can drive innovation and effectively address this growing threat.

Over the years, CASCADE has consistently been at the forefront of addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by trade in smuggled, counterfeit, and pass-off goods. Through its proactive approach, CASCADE has brought together stakeholders from across industries, government, and law enforcement to tackle the widespread implications of these illegal activities on the economy and society. By raising awareness through campaigns, facilitating knowledge sharing, and driving legislative advocacy, the community has played a crucial role in highlighting the economic losses, health risks, and security threats associated with illicit trade.

The seminar garnered an enthusiastic response, with over 200 delegates participating in insightful discussions and sharing perspectives on addressing the challenges of counterfeiting and illicit trade.

12^th August 2024 | FICCI, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi

FICCI CASCADE has been at the forefront of addressing the challenges posed by illicit trade in smuggled, counterfeit, and pass-off goods. Over the years, we have actively collaborated with policymakers, industry leaders, enforcement officials, and the media. Our efforts also extend to engaging the youth through various educational initiatives, including inter-school and inter-college competitions, youth festivals, and creative programs.

To further this mission and highlight the critical role of youth in combating counterfeiting and smuggling, FICCI CASCADE is organising “Zero Evasion – Role of Youth in Making India Free from Smuggling & Counterfeiting” on 12th August 2024 at FICCI, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi. This inter-school competitions will feature students from Delhi and NCR in the following categories:

1. Elocution Competition

2. Poster-Making Competition

3. Jingle Writing Competition

FICCI CASCADE values the impact that young minds can make in our awareness campaigns and recognizes their potential to drive meaningful change. By involving students, we aim to nurture a generation dedicated to national development and a future free from the threats of illicit trade.

Join us in these exciting competitions and contribute to this important cause!

3^rd August 2024 | FICCI, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi

Illicit trade undermines economic stability and public safety by bypassing legal regulations, resulting in financial losses and health risks. It also fuels criminal activities and erodes consumer trust, posing a significant threat to societal well-being.

A large section of the population impacted by this issue remains unaware of its severity. Therefore, a sensitization strategy is of paramount importance.

In line with our efforts to generate large-scale awareness, FICCI CASCADE is organizing an Auto Rally on Saturday, 3rd August 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Tansen Marg, New Delhi. The rally will serve as a platform to engage with the community and educate them about the harmful impacts of illicit trade. The route will cover:

• FICCI, Mandi House

• Barakhamba Road

• Connaught Place

• Exit to Barakhamba Road

• Back to FICCI, Mandi House

The Auto Rally aims to foster greater community engagement and educate the public about the dangers posed by smuggling and counterfeiting. Let’s come together to build a more informed and resilient society. Together, we can make a difference!

30^th July 2024

Venue : ITC Windsor, Bengaluru, Karnataka

FICCI CASCADE is organising a seminar on “Combatting Illicit Trade: Insights, Challenges, and Solutions”, on July 30, 2024, Tuesday, at ITC Windsor, Bengaluru, Karnataka

The seminar will delve into critical aspects of collaborative efforts against smuggling, emphasizing broader implications for national development and security. Key topics to be discussed include:

1. Enhancing coordination among agencies through shared insights and actionable intelligence.

2. Exploring the specific challenges posed by organized crime in the context of smuggling and discuss strategies to counteract and dismantle these criminal networks.

3. Ensuring that regulatory frameworks remain agile and responsive to the evolving landscape of smuggling.

4. Examining the role of technology in facilitating cross-agency synergies and collaboration in the fight against smuggling, with a focus on its contribution to national security and protecting the economic welfare of the nation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to the dialogue on safeguarding our economy against illicit trade. Your participation and perspectives would add immense value to this important discussion.

To confirm your attendance, register using the link below:

https://meet.ficci.in/invitee-form.asp?evid=27338

We look forward to your valuable presence and contribution.

16^th July 2024 at 7:00 pm

FICCI CASCADE (Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy) is organizing an engaging Twitter Space session with Ms. Sungita Sharma, Former Special Secretary & Member (Admin),Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE on July 16th, 2024, at 7:00 PM IST.

In this enlightening session, we’ll be delving into the crucial topic of ‘Unmasking Illicit Trade: Global Trends and Impacts on Economy and National Security’.

Ms. Sungita brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, and her insights promise to shed light on the intricate dynamics of combating illicit trade and its repercussions on the economy and national security.

Ms. Sungita brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, and her insights promise to shed light on the intricate dynamics of combating illicit trade and its repercussions on the economy and national security.

Join us to explore this enriching experience to know how to fight against illicit trade and terror financing and how different factors can help us in addressing the menace.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to the dialogue on combating illicit trade. Mark your calendars and join the conversation!

The joining link has been appended below for your kind reference:

https://x.com/i/spaces/1OdKrXEdBAvJX

We look forward to your joining the session.

20^th June 2024,Thursday | Commission Room, FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi

Smuggling and illicit trade are complex global threats undermining society, harming legitimate economies, and reducing government revenues. Apart from this, these operations now use advanced technologies and global supply chains to evade detection, funding criminal enterprises and terrorist organizations, and compromising national security. In response, FICCI CASCADE organized a seminar on June 20, 2024, titled “Global Challenges of Illicit Trade and the Way Forward,” to address these issues and foster collaboration against this universal threat. With extensive participation from government bodies, industry leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society, the seminar facilitated a comprehensive discussion. While various perspectives were shared, the primary focus remained on formulating effective strategies to combat this growing menace.

 “Combating such expansive networks demands a coalition of government bodies and non-state actors,” remarked Mr. Mohan Kumar Singh, Principal Director General of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). He vividly illustrated the profound threat of illicit trade and highlighted how smuggling and counterfeiting erode legitimate economic activities, deplete government revenues, and fuel organized crime. With striking statistics, Mr. Singh revealed that in the 2023-24 financial year alone, the DRI uncovered 623 cases, averaging nearly two per day, resulting in the seizure of contraband worth Rs. 3500 crores. These included narcotics, gold, fake currency and a variety of other illicit goods like cigarettes and wildlife products. Mr. Singh advocated for global cooperation to tackle this menace, highlighting the success of international cooperation efforts giving the example of WCO-led Operation TIN CAN in seizing contraband within legitimate cargo. He praised FICCI CASCADE’s relentless campaign against illicit trade and the seminar for fostering essential dialogue and collaboration. He emphasized the urgent need to involve relevant stakeholders, noting that many DRI investigations reveal troubling infiltration of supply chains and insider involvement.

“It takes a network to defeat a network,” Mr. P K Das, Director of the Compliance and Facilitation Directorate at the World Customs Organisation (WCO), highlighted the WCO’s efforts against illicit trade, including the Illicit Trade Report. He praised Indian Customs’ support, especially through Operation Shesha, a collaboration with Hong Kong Customs and the WCO. Mr. Das highlighted the importance of a networked approach to dismantle illicit networks, calling for coordinated efforts in analysis, interdiction, investigation, prosecution, and penalties. He concluded by promoting trade integrity and commending FICCI for its support to Indian Customs in this fight.

Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman of FICCI CASCADE, delivering the welcome address at the seminar, said, “In India, DRI and other enforcement agencies have been playing a significant role in combating illicit trade through increased seizures of illicit products like gold, cigarettes, currency, and cosmetics at airports, seaports, and border points. Today, illicit trade operatives exploit AI to automate smuggling processes and analyze border control data, law enforcement activities, and surveillance patterns. This misuse of technology requires our unabated focus.” “I must emphasize that despite the increase in seizures, these represent only the tip of the iceberg. The problem’s magnitude is significantly higher and continues to grow exponentially. Hence, it is imperative to enhance global cooperation in combating illicit trade. One proposed solution is establishing a ‘Global Forum’ of enforcement agencies worldwide, supported by a dedicated secretariat. FICCI CASCADE stands ready to collaborate with the government and enforcement agencies to develop a comprehensive strategy,” Mr. Rajput added.

“Illicit trade lurks in the underbelly of the economy” Mr. P C Jha, Advisor to FICCI CASCADE and former CBIC Chairman, stressed the need for technology, and international cooperation to combat illicit trade. He noted significant economic impacts and highlighted FICCI CASCADE’s role in promoting responsible behaviour among consumers and youth.

“There are no immediate shortcuts that we can apply but we have to think of the long run and within that structure the short run,” said, Prof. Arun Kumar, Author & Retd. Professor of Economics at Jawaharlal Nehru University. He highlighted the extensive reach of illicit trade, linking it to the black economy and black income generation. He stressed the critical role of the international financial system in addressing this issue and identified a corrupt nexus—comprising businessmen, politicians, and executives—as key to perpetuating illicit trade. Prof. Kumar mentioned that combating this, requires political will and accountability at all governance levels. He referenced India’s 1950s development, which focused on resource management to alleviate poverty and illiteracy. Prof. Kumar advocated dismantling the corrupt nexus and called for honesty in implementing technological measures like digitization and cryptocurrency. He also highlighted the importance of social and cultural factors in international collaboration and urged independent regulatory agencies to drive positive privatization.

 “Recognizing that a border is more than just a line is crucial in addressing these complex issues of illicit trade and smuggling effectively.” Brigadier Girish Upadhya SM, VSM, DIG- 23rd Sector Assam Rifles briefed on the role of Assam Rifles in ensuring national security and preventing smuggling and illicit trade. He highlighted the challenging terrain of the northeast, noting the difficulties of guarding inaccessible borders with limited resources. Brigadier Girish explained the existence of both legal and numerous illegal crossing points and emphasized the collaboration with stakeholders like Customs and DRI at various checkpoints. Brigadier Girish also discussed the implementation of measures such as biometric checks and regular monitoring to mitigate risks, enhance compliance, and support national security efforts.

Mr. Najib Shah, Former Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs and a FICCI CASCADE Think Tank Member, highlighted the increased quantum of seizures, stressing that the visible figures of seizures by Customs are only a fraction of the actual illicit inflow. Mr. Shah raised a crucial point about right holders’ reluctance to engage in the process, possibly due to concerns over credibility or lengthy destruction procedures. He urged the CASCADE committee to address this issue, stressing the necessity for right holders to be actively involved in safeguarding their counterfeited products from being smuggled.

Indian Customs is implementing evolving strategies to combat illicit trade, mentioned Mr. Sanjay Bansal, Commissioner (Import & Exports). He emphasized the use of data analytics to enhance intelligence, enabling the targeted capture of high-risk consignments. Praising platforms like the Economic Intelligence Council, he noted their role in fostering inter-agency collaboration to strengthen investigations. Mr. Bansal spoke about the importance of a multi-agency approach and international partnerships to disrupt illicit financial flows. He detailed the repetitive nature of strategies used by customs, driven by continuous feedback and intelligence sharing, ensuring adaptive responses to evolving threats. His insights depicted proactive measures at India’s borders, safeguarding national security and economic stability amid a complex global trade landscape.

Mr. B. Shanker Jaiswal, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police (Tech, Cyber & Licensing), Delhi Police highlighted the need of urgency and innovation in combating illicit trade through advanced technology and the need for skilled personnel capable at navigating the dark web and digital transactions. Mr. Jaiswal encouraged for using government databases and employing AI for proactive data mining, enabling law enforcement to anticipate and disrupt illicit activities effectively. His vision of data-driven monitoring reflects future-oriented approach, where AI simplifies precise irregularity detection and targeted investigations. His insights portrayed a forward-thinking strategy, leveraging technology to bridge the gap between current capabilities and the goal of eliminating illicit trade, ensuring robust enforcement in an increasingly digital landscape.

“Educating the public about the dangers associated with smuggling and its consequences is crucial.” Mr. Robin Gupta, Joint Director of the Enforcement Directorate, emphasized the importance of public education in combating smuggling. He noted that increased awareness deters smuggling, especially when combined with severe punishments. Mr. Gupta stressed the need for community engagement and stakeholder involvement, promoting the reporting of suspicious activities and cooperation with law enforcement. He also highlighted the crucial role of artificial intelligence and analytics in predicting and identifying smuggling activities, underscoring their importance in the strategy against illicit trade.

Ms. Sungita Sharma, Former Special Secretary of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, while concluding the seminar, emphasized the urgent need for unified action against illicit trade, highlighting the importance of a networked strategy to disrupt these networks and promote ethical conduct. The discussions stressed the necessity for decisive political leadership, transparent accountability, innovative technological solutions, and collaborative frameworks to enhance border security. These insights offer a roadmap for future efforts, reinforcing our commitment to upholding global commerce integrity and collective prosperity.

The seminar on global illicit trade and the way forward was attended by over 200 industry stakeholders. Insights gleaned from the discussions, underscores the vital role of a networked approach, transparent accountability mechanisms, Global Forum, Resource Management, Consumer Awareness and innovative technological solutions in combating illicit trade. As we navigate the complexities of this challenge, the shared commitment of diverse stakeholders will be pivotal in safeguarding the integrity of global commerce and fostering sustainable prosperity.

6^th June 2024 | New Delhi

Counterfeiting and contraband pose significant global challenges, impacting both developing and developed nations, including India. Despite India’s rapid economic growth creating opportunities across sectors, it has also inadvertently fostered an environment conducive to counterfeiters and smugglers. On June 6, 2024, FICCI CASCADE organized a stakeholder consultation in commemoration of World Anti-Counterfeiting Day, themed “Securing the Digital Frontier: Cooperation, Collaboration, and Best Practices.” The consultation garnered extensive participation from government bodies, industry leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society. Distinguished figures from various sectors shared insights on combating counterfeiting, focusing on themes such as enhancing enforcement measures, leveraging technology for authentication, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and increasing public awareness. Participants underscored the importance of forging partnerships among government entities, industry stakeholders, and civil society to effectively address these pervasive challenges.

Mr. B. Shankar Jaiswal, IPS, the Joint Commissioner of Police (Tech, Cyber, and Licensing) from the Delhi Police, brought attention to the multifaceted nature of counterfeiting and its wide-ranging impacts during the discussion. He highlighted the significant loss of government revenue and trademark rights violations resulting from counterfeiting, particularly emphasizing the challenge posed by counterfeit currency notes. Mr. Jaiswal also addressed the global issue of counterfeit drugs, outlining strategies such as stricter regulations and public awareness campaigns to combat this problem. He proposed adjustments in the risk-reward scheme for counterfeiters and suggested leveraging blockchain technology for supply chain security while cautioning against overreliance on it. Additionally, Mr. Jaiswal emphasized the importance of countering deepfake technology in social media platforms through the adoption of anti-deepfake tools. Overall, his insights underscored the pressing necessity for a comprehensive approach integrating technological innovation, regulatory interventions, and public awareness initiatives to effectively combat counterfeiting and safeguard economies, industries, and public trust.

Mr. Amit Goyal, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police – Crime, Delhi Police, emphasized the pervasive threat posed by counterfeiting, labeling it as one of humanity’s oldest crimes. He pointed out the dangers it poses to financial systems, national security, and public trust, citing the exploitation of vulnerabilities in security measures such as fake identities on social media and manipulation of e-commerce platforms. Mr. Goyal stressed the imperative of addressing these challenges to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of online transactions. Additionally, he discussed the rising trend of impersonation for fraudulent purposes, highlighting the necessity for improved training and awareness among stakeholders to effectively combat these deceptive practices.

Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman of FICCI CASCADE, stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle counterfeiting. He highlighted the importance of legal measures, enforcement actions, consumer awareness, and industry cooperation. According to him, the Government, law enforcement agencies, businesses, and global organizations must enhance collaboration and innovate methods and technologies to combat counterfeiting effectively. The aim is to protect consumers, support genuine businesses, and maintain the integrity of global supply chains.

Dr. G R Raghavender, a senior consultant at CIPAM and former Joint Secretary of DPIIT, highlighted the profound economic and health repercussions of counterfeiting. He urged stakeholders to adopt robust strategies to combat this issue effectively. He shared the risks associated with counterfeit medicines and stressed the need for stringent measures to protect patient safety. Dr. Raghavender also discussed India’s proactive efforts in combating counterfeiting and protecting intellectual property rights through participation in WIPO treaties. Additionally, he underscored India’s commitment to biodiversity conservation as a signatory of the Convention on Biological Diversity, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts and public awareness initiatives in addressing counterfeiting.

During the consultation, Dr. Debi Prasad Dash, former Principal Director General of DRI and Chairman of the Enforcement Committee at WCO, who also serves as a distinguished member of the think tank at FICCI CASCADE, led an insightful panel discussion. Dr. Dash highlighted a nuanced perspective: smuggling activities are not solely confined to counterfeit goods; even genuine products can be subject to illicit smuggling practices. He highlighted FICCI CASCADE’s role in combating both smuggling and counterfeiting by bringing together various stakeholders. The discussion also touched upon the importance of TRIPS in tackling counterfeiting.

Various industries members put forward strategies to combat counterfeiting, emphasizing the importance of stronger legislation and robust laws. Collaboration is seen as highly effective, with stakeholders across the supply chain, consumers, and authorities working together to identify counterfeit products, share information, and prosecute offenders. Additionally, raising consumer awareness is deemed essential. Educating consumers about the risks of counterfeit goods empowers them to make informed choices and support genuine brands. There’s a call for increased consumer education on recognizing counterfeit goods, with consumer organizations playing a pivotal role.

The session attracted cyber-law experts and representatives from various organizations, including USPTO, JETRO, British High Commission India, Embassy of Denmark in India, Proctor & Gamble, Amazon, HUL, Diageo India, Marico, Pernod Richard, Asian Paints, and Western Digital.

Mr. Deep Chand, IPS, former special commissioner of police and advisor to FICCI CASCADE, wrapped up the event by summarizing the fruitful discussions that took place. During the session, participants delved into various strategies to combat counterfeiting, focusing on leveraging advanced technologies like authentication systems, track-and-trace solutions, and blockchain. The gathering highlighted global best practices in tackling counterfeiting, underscoring the proactive measures adopted across different parts of the world.

31^st May 2024 at 7: 00 pm

FICCI CASCADE organized a X (Twitter) Space program featuring Mr. P K Malhotra, Former Secretary, Ministry of Law and Justice and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE on “Legal Insights & Strategies to Combat Counterfeiting and Smuggling” on 31 st May 2024. Mr. Malhotra shed light on the current global scenario of smuggling and counterfeiting, elucidating their substantial impacts on national economies, and lawful enterprises.

During the discussion, Mr. Malhotra highlighted the widespread prevalence of smuggling globally, emphasizing its detrimental impact on both national and international economies. He underscored the complex interconnection between counterfeiting, smuggling, and organized crime, which presents significant challenges for law enforcement and regulatory agencies. Furthermore, Mr. Malhotra emphasized how illicit trade practices contribute to the erosion of tax revenues, impeding government initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth. He also elucidated the adverse consequences of counterfeiting and smuggling on legitimate businesses, including the loss of market share, harm to reputation, and risks to consumer safety. Stressing the urgency of collaborative efforts, Mr. Malhotra emphasized the necessity for governments, industry stakeholders, and civil society to work together in developing robust legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to effectively combat illicit trade. He elaborated on the adverse effects of using counterfeit products, which include health risks, loss of trust in brands and sellers, and financial losses. Furthermore, the purchase of counterfeit goods can diminish consumer confidence in brands and sellers, particularly when they unknowingly acquire substandard items, resulting in disillusionment and doubt. He delved into specific laws outlined in the Indian Penal Code and consumer protection legislation aimed at preventing smuggling and counterfeiting. Additionally, he explored how smuggling intertwines with terrorism, highlighting its role as a funding source, facilitator, and tool for exploitation in terrorist activities. This connection amplifies security risks and hampers counterterrorism efforts.

To conclude, Mr. Malhotra proposed essential steps, such as enhancing international collaboration and sharing information to dismantle cross-border smuggling networks. He also stressed the significance of raising public awareness and conducting consumer education programs to reduce the desire for counterfeit goods. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of cultivating partnerships within industries and adopting technological advancements to improve transparency and traceability in supply chains. These collaborative endeavors are pivotal in combating illicit trade and protecting the interests of economies, businesses, and consumers from its detrimental impacts.

Furthermore, participants were able to participate in a productive discussion,
exchanging thoughts and methods to reduce illicit trade and protecting socio-economic interests worldwide.

The online session attracted eager engagement from a global audience of over 15,000 participants.