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Fake auto parts are a big business
Counterfeit auto parts are a big business in India, says a study commissioned by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA).
Counterfeit auto parts are a big business in India, says a study commissioned by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA).
ACMA says counterfeits account for close to 35 per cent with a market size of Rs 5,300 crore in the Rs 16,500 crore replacement parts market.
The association, in an effort to counter the menace, carried out as many as 160 raids on fakes in 2009.
Soumitra Bhattacharya, Chairman, Consumer Affairs Committee, Anti —Counterfeiting Committee, ACMA & Sr. Vice President — Bosch, said, “We are creating a policy to include more ACMA member participation in these raids.”
As part of the programme ACMA member companies such as Delphi-TVS Diesel Systems, Brakes India, Lucas, GKN Driveshafts, Delux Bearings and Talbros Automotive Components plan to come together to enhance the quality and quantity of the raids.
Bhattacharya said under Indian law, counterfeiters in auto parts attract a prison term of six months to 3 years.
“We want the government to look at it as a non-bailable offence,” Bhattacharya said, observing that currently, in addition to prison terms, a fine of between Rs 50,000 and Rs 2 lakh is also slapped under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Component makers say the spurious parts industry is spread all over the country with well-networked agents and distribution channels in metros and small towns.
