Following a complaint from M/s Smithmo Company Ltd regarding “FINDER branded tools,” the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) seized counterfeit goods worth KES 50 million from China Square Mall.
In Kenya, the company owns the registered trademark “FINDER,” and the ACA’s Enforcement Directorate responded quickly to the complaint.
On February 16, 2023, they conducted an inspection at the China Square Mall, which resulted in in-situ seizures of goods, including hardware materials and tools owned by the brand owner.
The ACA is committed to protecting intellectual property rights and fair trade practises, and the recent seizure of “FINDER branded tools” demonstrates the Authority’s efforts to combat counterfeiting and piracy.
The Authority raises public awareness about intellectual property rights and fair trade practises through education and advocacy programmes.
Meanwhile, China Square’s legal team is collaborating with the government to resolve the standoff.
However, in a statement issued on Sunday, February 26, China Square management announced an indefinite closure and did not provide a timeline for when operations would resume.
Since its opening on January 29, 2023, the mall has been at the centre of controversy, with Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria revealing his intention to force the China Square owner out of business.
Later, the Trade CS offered to help the owner of China Square establish a manufacturing plant in Kenya.
The proprietor of China Square, Lei Cheng, claimed that the infringement claims were an attempt to force him out of business.
He added that the dispute was the result of a misunderstanding from the manufacturer in China and that it had already been resolved.
He expressed his concern that the company would not reopen.
