Discover your next big idea at PACK EXPO Las Vegas
Experience a breakthrough in packaging & processing and transform your business with solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries. Click to learn more.

Counterfeiting's global 'report card'

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) reports on the proliferation of counterfeit drugs around the world.

Flags
Flags

Reports on the growing threat of counterfeit drugs often single out the Far East as a major global hotspot. The USTR’s Special 301 report identifies China and India as areas of concern, but also lists Brazil, Indonesia, and Russia, according to a May 3 report from in-Pharma Technologist.com.

The USTR report’s “Priority Watch List” also includes Algeria, Argentina, Canada, Chile, Pakistan, Thailand, and Venezuela.

In-Pharma Technologist’s story does point to several positive developments in the battle against counterfeit drugs, pointing to China’s steps “requiring manufacturers to register with the State Food and Drug Administration, by enforcing more effective regulatory controls.” It also noted, “Criminalizing the manufacture and storage of counterfeits has contributed to the Czech Republic being removed [from the USTR’s watch list]. Hungary and Poland are also off the list.” Bolivia’s enforcement action led “to the seizure of more than 30 tons of pharmaceuticals and corresponding prosecutions.”

Manufacturers in the packaging sector continue to develop technologies to counter counterfeit drugs. One recent example comes from Smart Holograms. Its Verif-EYE™ bio-optical, interactive visual sensor allows consumers to “self validate” their purchases prior to consumption or use to ensure the product is genuine and tamper-free.

Smart Filling Equipment Selection Guide
Discover the six critical factors that determine filling equipment success and avoid costly selection mistakes that drain profits.
Read More
Smart Filling Equipment Selection Guide
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—Packaging World editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability