In a significant move, the United States has reintroduced the Shop Safe Act, aimed at curbing the sale of unsafe counterfeit products through online platforms. The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has expressed its strong support for this legislative effort.
Steve Lamar, President and CEO of AAFA, emphasised the grave concerns associated with counterfeit goods. He pointed out that such products not only jeopardize product safety and the environment but also evade social responsibility and sustainability standards, all while evading accountability.
The Shop Safe Act, initially introduced in 2021, seeks to ensure that online platforms adhere to the same standards and responsibilities as traditional brick-and-mortar retailers. This is a vital step in preventing the sale of counterfeit or illicit products that could pose risks to U.S. consumers.
Lamar highlighted the risks posed by counterfeit products, stating that they could contain dangerous chemicals or heavy metals, in addition to conflicting with consumers’ moral values. Furthermore, he pointed out that counterfeit goods can have national and financial security implications and can contribute to organized crime globally.
Lamar emphasised that brands invest substantial resources and dedicated teams to protect their brand identities. They work diligently to combat consumer deception, meet sustainability benchmarks, conduct comprehensive consumer safety tests, ensure worker safety, and meticulously trace their supply chains to uphold brand integrity.
“Once enacted, the SHOP SAFE Act will require platforms to engage in best practices for screening and vetting sellers and goods, address repeat counterfeiter sellers, and ensure that consumers have relevant information available to them, or be held liable for the sale of counterfeit and illicit products that harm consumers,” said Lamar.
A recent AAFA counterfeit study in 2022 found that 17 out of 47 tested products failed to meet US product safety standards. These products contained dangerous levels of substances like arsenic, cadmium, phthalates, lead, and more, which have been linked to adverse health effects.
