Ministry of Commerce and DaimlerChrysler join hands to fight fake spare parts

It is estimated that counterfeiting accounts for between 5 and 10 percent of global trade and directly affects the revenue of governments in terms of customs and taxes.

"Mutual co-operation between the authorities and the manufacturer is the key to successfully fighting the use of fake spare parts and property rights infringements," said Ma'n Al-Hamawi, After Sales, DaimlerChrysler Middle East. "The use of a trademark without the owner's approval breaks both Kuwaiti and international laws."

Auto spare parts counterfeiting has serious safety consequences for the customer. The use of, for example, fake brake pads or windscreens, could threaten the safety of the driver and his family as they are far more likely to fail in an emergency situation.

"These parts are manufactured solely to make a quick profit. They use low quality materials and are not subject to the extensive quality tests that we perform at DaimlerChrysler," added Al-Hamawi. "Although the customers may think they have a good bargain, we still advise them to report any kind of suspected parts to our general distributor in Kuwait, Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co., where the competent staff will be glad to help."

DaimlerChrysler would like to thank the Commercial Control Department and in particular the Markaz Al Madinat branch for its dedication in protecting the property rights of the consumer and manufacturer.