Public engagement initiated on Anti-Counterfeit Bill

With the start of public consultations on the Anti-Counterfeit Goods Bill, 2023, Parliament has taken a major step toward countering the widespread spread of counterfeit goods and promoting the economy.

This legislative endeavor, led by Hon. Asuman Basalirwa (JEEMA, Bugiri Municipality) and backed by Hon. Jonathan Ebwalu (Independent, Soroti West Division), is a critical step in tackling the widespread threat posed by counterfeit goods.

The House granted Basalirwa leave to introduce “The Anti-Counterfeiting Bill, 2023,” a private member’s bill, in July 2023. With a focus on copyrights and trademarks, the proposed law aims to outlaw counterfeit goods that violate intellectual property rights. Additionally, it establishes fines for dealing in counterfeit goods and gives the Uganda Revenue Authority and Uganda National Bureau of Standards inspectors the power to seize them.

In the end, Basalirwa stated, they want a piece of legislation that is representative of all the people, which highlights the significance of public participation in creating effective legislation.

Fake goods and services, according to Basalirwa, affect every industry and sector, including manufacturing, trade and commerce, transportation, agriculture, and industry. He continues by saying that non-standard transportation systems and equipment are to blame for some accidents in Uganda, and that counterfeit goods are to blame for the rise in adult and pediatric cancer cases.

In line with these ideas, Hon. Ebwalu emphasized the nonpartisan character of the bill, saying that it is a people’s law that should bring people together and mend the rift caused by political differences.

Ebwalu noted that counterfeit products are everywhere, “You go to the supermarket, you go to the pharmacies, you go everywhere, you will find the counterfeit. Unfortunately, the counterfeit products pose potentially serious risks to the consumers because these counterfeits do not have the specifications of the original owners” He said.

The Anti-Counterfeit Network (ACN) Chairman, Fred Muwema, praised the Bill as a welcome and timely intervention against counterfeits, noting that counterfeits affect everyone in Uganda, even the counterfeiters themselves.

He emphasized the detrimental effects of fake goods on the economy and public health.

The Anti-Counterfeit Goods Bill, 2023 seeks to protect Ugandan citizens’ interests and solve long-standing issues.

Ugandans will have the chance to shape legislation that will have significant effects on the country’s economy and public health as public consultations are about to begin.