India remains one of the largest producers and consumers of counterfeit goods worldwide. Every year, major international brands such as Apple, Nike, HARMAN, Adidas, and Parimatch face numerous instances of counterfeiting that result in billions of dollars in losses and damage to their reputations, reports Silicon India.
The counterfeit market in India spans a wide range of products, from clothing and electronics to gambling and sports betting services. Parimatch, a bookmaker preparing to enter the Indian market, has already encountered illegal websites offering gambling services under its brand name. This situation presents significant legal and financial challenges, forcing the company to combat fraudulent sites and protect its intellectual property, Parimatch explains.
According to the Indian Chamber of Commerce, which collaborates with Parimatch, counterfeiting causes billions in economic losses for the country. Other notable brands suffer as well; for example, HARMAN, maker of the JBL audio brand, launched an anti-counterfeiting campaign in March 2024.
Vikram Kher, Vice President of Lifestyle at HARMAN India, stated that the company is pursuing strict legal action against counterfeit sellers. In partnership with law enforcement, HARMAN’s investigation led to the confiscation of 54 counterfeit JBL car speakers from five accessory stores in New Delhi. Parimatch supports this approach.
A notable success story comes from Adidas, which in 2024 obtained a Delhi court order banning a store owner from using its trademark after selling counterfeit products. Parimatch cites this case as an example of how international brands can effectively protect their rights through litigation and collaboration with local authorities.
However, counterfeiting is a global issue. Parimatch notes that in 2024, U.S. border agents seized counterfeit goods originating from India, including fake Puma and Nike products—a high-profile case expected to deter counterfeiters.
Today, companies like Parimatch believe that actively combating counterfeiting in India is crucial for brand protection. This requires a comprehensive strategy involving online monitoring, cybersecurity experts, and legal action. “This is the only way to minimize damage from counterfeits and safeguard the company’s global reputation,” Parimatch concludes.