Japan to Raise Consumer Awareness of Counterfeits

Japan’s Patent Office (JPO) announced an “Anti-Counterfeiting Campaign” on December 10, in cooperation with the Intellectual Property Policy Headquarters and related ministries to raise public awareness of the risk of counterfeit products.

Japan’s Patent Office (JPO) announced an “Anti-Counterfeiting Campaign” on December 10, in cooperation with the Intellectual Property Policy Headquarters and related ministries to raise public awareness of the risk of counterfeit products.

“The recent advance and diversification of information technology and distribution networks have increased the complexity and spectrum of damage caused by counterfeiting and piracy,” says the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in a press release, and “a public opinion poll conducted by the Cabinet Office in 2008 revealed that about half of the Japanese people polled approved of the purchase of counterfeit products. This suggests the continued need for efforts to raise consumer awareness through campaigns and other anti-counterfeiting and piracy activities.”

As consumers purchase more products from online venues using mobile phones, the Ministry is warning consumers of the risks of counterfeits because the distribution of counterfeit goods via the Internet is increasing, says the Ministry.

Beginning on December 10, six thousand posters will be displayed across Japan, in government offices, companies and institutions. In addition, a major media campaign involving print, television and web media will be instituted.