NAFDAC Links Chinese Counterfeiters to Fake Goods Crisis

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has identified Chinese counterfeiters residing in Nigeria as a significant factor in the increasing prevalence of fake goods. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC's Director of Investigation and Enforcement, stated that these counterfeiters have established local operations, eliminating the need to import fake products from China.

NAFDAC has been actively shutting down logistics companies linked to these counterfeiters. The agency's efforts come amid rising concerns from manufacturers, medical experts, and economists regarding the detrimental effects of counterfeit products on legitimate businesses and public health.

NAFDAC reported destroying regulated products worth over N1.5 trillion in a coordinated operation across Lagos and the South-East between February and March 2025. Since 2023, the agency has seized or destroyed over N1.54 trillion worth of counterfeit goods nationwide.

NAFDAC is also prosecuting two individuals for importing fake toothpaste brands, responding to numerous complaints about counterfeit oral care products.