The Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group (SAITG) has relaunched this month, with the aim of combating counterfeiting and intellectual property crime in Scotland

Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group Relaunches to Combat Counterfeit Crime
Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group Relaunches to Combat Counterfeit Crime

Supported by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the group brings together law enforcement, government and businesses to strengthen Scotland’s fight against this illicit trade.

According to IPO research, almost one in three of those asked (29%) across the UK have purchased counterfeit goods in the past. Almost one in five (19%) said they purchase them often, sometimes or on an occasional basis. For 2021, the overall estimated value of imported counterfeit goods into the United Kingdom was over £7 billion.

The group will focus on developing best practice and enhancing collective strategies to tackle the supply of counterfeit goods across Scotland. They will form a coordinated response to protect Scottish products, businesses and consumers from the threat of IP crime.

It brings together members including the Scotch Whisky Association, Police Scotland, Trading Standards, The Wine & Spirit Trade Association and The Anti-Counterfeiting Group.

Together, they will create a forum for distinct industry areas to share insight, intelligence and provide training and support for law enforcement agencies.

The group’s work will also help build a greater understanding among the wider public of the harms this trade causes, emphasising that counterfeiting is anything but a victimless crime.

The IPO’s Deputy Director of Enforcement Miles Rees stressed the importance of collaboration:

Rachel Jones, newly appointed Chair of the Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group and founder of Snapdragon, said:

Fiona Richardson, Chief Officer for Trading Standards Scotland, said:

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry of Police Scotland emphasised the serious nature of illicit trade:

Alan Park, Director of Legal Affairs at the Scotch Whisky Association, highlighted the importance of protecting Scotland’s premium products:

Members of the public can report suspected counterfeit goods to Police Scotland by calling 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.