Supported by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the group brings together law enforcement, government and businesses to strengthen Scotland’s fight against this illicit trade.

According to IPO research, almost one in three of those asked (29 per cent) across the UK have purchased counterfeit goods in the past. Almost one in five (19 per cent) said they purchase them often, sometimes or on an occasional basis. For 2021, the overall estimated value of imported counterfeit goods into the United Kingdom was over £7 billion.
 
The group will focus on developing best practice and enhancing collective strategies to tackle the supply of counterfeit goods across Scotland forming a coordinated response to protect Scottish products, businesses and consumers from the threat of IP crime.

It brings together members including the Scotch Whisky Association, Police Scotland, Trading Standards, The Wine & Spirit Trade Association and The Anti-Counterfeiting Group.

Together, they will create a forum for distinct industry areas to share insight, intelligence and provide training and support for law enforcement agencies.

The group’s work will also work will also help build a greater understanding among the wider public of the harms this trade causes, emphasising that counterfeiting is anything but a victimless crime.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “The Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group has an important role to play in disrupting the production and distribution of counterfeit and illicit goods. As well as harming legitimate businesses, the profits of such activities fund other criminal activity. The Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, which I chair, will continue to work with the SAITG to do everything we can to tackle this illegal activity.”

Fiona Richardson, chief officer for Trading Standards Scotland, said: “Illicit trade is a priority for Trading Standards Scotland and the team regularly looks to undertake actions against those selling counterfeit goods. These actions are aimed at protecting consumers and legitimate businesses by preventing the sale of counterfeit products throughout Scotland.”