The spread of counterfeit goods has become global in recent years. According to the Counterfeiting Intelligence Bureau (CIB) of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), counterfeit goods make up 5 to 7% of world trade.A report by the Organization for economic Co – operation and Development (OECD) states that up to $200 billion of international trade could have been for counterfeit and pirated goods in 2005, and around $250 billion in 2007.
It is estimated that the growth in counterfeit electronics has more than doubled between 2005 and 2008.Among the causes for its growth are many: more of the world’s manufacturing is being transferred overseas, the growth in internet e-commerce sales, and the fact that consumers hit by the recession will seek out lower-cost items.
Counterfeit good is a serious issue in developing and underdeveloped countries. Early 2012 The Confederation of Tanzania Industries has said that counterfeits cost the government losses of between 15-25 per cent of total domestic revenue annually, and between Tsh540 and Tsh900 billion ($343 million and $566 million) annually in tax evasion related to counterfeits and substandard goods. (how sure are you this fig is accurate)
Tanzanian government, different NGO’s and different private firms’ are working hard to fight the war against counterfeit goods. One of the leading electronic cellular company Samsung Electronics Tanzania is part of the private firm which continues with its on-going global war against counterfeit, refurbished, stolen, and non-warranty products. Recently, Samsung Electronics Tanzania has called on all customers and users of Samsung phones who have not yet registered their mobile phones on the e-warranty platform to do so, in order to enjoy a 24-month warranty and other exciting services and offers from the electronic giants. The e-warranty platform of Samsung Electronic Tanzania, offers customers the unique opportunity of checking any of their Samsung product purchase, whether they are original or fake products.
Samsung Electronic Tanzania on its war against phony products went extra mile by launching its Service Center at the heart of Dar city – Kariakoo. The bold move is part of Samsung ethos whereby all Samsung customers who have registered their mobile phones on the e-warranty platform will receive the best electronics repairing services that would suit their approach and preferences. The Samsung Service Center uses the approach to deliver quality after-sales service by having a specialized technician, rapid delivery mechanism, no service charge during warranty period and home delivery services.
Mr. Mubarak Mikidad (Samsung Tanzania Service Manager) stressed on how Samsung made registration on the e-warranty platform very easy and convenient. Currently customers can register using their mobile phones irrespective of their mobile service providers. Customers are therefore urged to continue registering their phones on the e-warranty platform by sending the phone’s 15 digit IMEI number to the short code 15685 across all networks. The IMEI number can be found on the phone’s packaging or by dialing *#06#, it can also be seen in the empty battery slot on a white label noting IMEI.