How does counterfeiting affect the textiles industry?
The impact is widespread. Between 2005 and 2007, counterfeiting grew at 6.6%, more than double the pace of total apparel market growth. In almost all cases, inferior products and materials are fallaciously labeled in some the purity or composition of materials is mislabeled; in others, brand names are misappropriated. From a public health and safety perspective, there is the added risk that a knock-off garment may contain harmful dyes which may be allergenic or even carcinogenic. Some textile products require certain fire-retardant treatments which may not be utilized, or lesser quality textile treatments may be used, that put products such as mattresses, childrens apparel and fire-fighter garments at high risk. The general public may not be aware of the consequences of purchasing and subsequently wearing counterfeit garments.
