Mahan Hazarika interviewed Manoj Kochar, president of ASPA, to discuss the critical role of authentication ecosystems in combating counterfeiting in India. Kochar highlighted ASPA’s multi-layered approach, integrating physical, digital, and phygital solutions, while also sharing insights on the upcoming Traceability & Authentication Forum (TAF) 2025 and the future of authentication technologies.

Mahan Hazarika: How does ASPA envision the role of authentication ecosystems in combating counterfeiting in India?

Manoj Kochar: ASPA envisions authentication ecosystems as a crucial defense against counterfeiting in India’s packaging industry, which affects sectors like FMCG, electronics, and automotive. As counterfeiters adopt sophisticated methods, securing supply chains requires a comprehensive authentication framework integrating physical, digital, and phygital solutions.

Physical security measures such as tamper-evident labels, security holograms, RFID-enabled smart packaging, and covert machine-readable markers provide multi-layered protection. Digital tools like blockchain-based track-and-trace systems, AI-driven verification, and smartphone-enabled QR code scanning further enhance authentication, enabling real-time product verification.

Beyond technology, ASPA emphasizes industry education and collaboration to strengthen anti-counterfeiting efforts. It conducts seminars, webinars, and reports to guide packaging companies in implementing authentication solutions effectively. Its public repository on counterfeit product raids offers insights into emerging threats, while the ASPA & CRISIL Report 2022 highlights vulnerabilities in tier 2, 3 cities and rural areas, helping businesses tailor authentication strategies accordingly.

Looking ahead, ASPA continues to facilitate industry-wide discussions on regulatory changes and technological advancements. Platforms like the 6th Traceability & Authentication Forum 2025 will play a key role in shaping the future of authentication in packaging. By fostering collaboration between brands, policymakers, and technology providers, ASPA aims to fortify India’s packaging ecosystem against counterfeiting threats.

Mahan Hazarika: The Traceability and Authentication Forum (TAF) is coming up soon. Could you provide insights into the objectives and focus areas for TAF 2025?

Manoj Kochar: The 6th edition of Traceability & Authentication Forum (TAF) 2025, scheduled for 17–18 March at Eros Hotel, Nehru Place, New Delhi. TAF 2025 is ASPA’s flagship industry gathering focused on addressing counterfeiting and supply chain vulnerabilities. Organized in collaboration with THE Rise, the event will bring together policymakers, brands, ASPA members, and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for securing supply chains and protecting consumer trust.

Themed ‘Path to a Secure Future – Authentication and Traceability for All,’ TAF 2025 will explore advanced anti-counterfeiting measures, regulatory frameworks, and technological innovations to build a more resilient economy.

Beyond industry concerns, the forum will have broader implications for economic growth, consumer safety, and brand integrity. Government officials will offer regulatory perspectives, while industry pioneers and global experts will showcase cutting-edge advancements in authentication and supply chain security. The event will foster collaboration between brands, manufacturers, and solution providers, paving the way for impactful partnerships.

A key highlight will be the second edition of UK Gupta Excellence Awards 2025, recognizing innovation and leadership in anti-counterfeiting efforts. The forum will provide policy recommendations, a roadmap for technological adoption, and industry collaboration frameworks, ensuring tangible takeaways for all attendees.

As counterfeiting threats evolve, TAF 2025 is more than just a conference – it is a crucial platform shaping the future of global trade, consumer protection, and brand security. ASPA Invites Industry stakeholders to add their valuable presence and be a part of this Insightful discussion.

Mahan Hazarika: What are ASPA’s expectations from TAF 2025, and how do you plan to leverage this platform to address current challenges in combating counterfeiting?

Manoj Kochar: ASPA expects TAF 2025 to serve as a catalyst for industry-wide action against counterfeiting by fostering collaboration, innovation, and policy advancements. As a leading advocate for authentication solutions, ASPA aims to leverage this platform to strengthen engagement with policymakers, industry leaders, and solution providers in adopting robust anti-counterfeiting measures.

TAF 2025 will provide a structured space for government agencies, brand owners, enforcement authorities, and technology providers to discuss securing supply chains and protecting consumer trust. The forum is expected to generate actionable insights, helping industries refine strategies and align with global best practices.

Beyond discussions, TAF 2025 will facilitate knowledge-sharing on emerging threats, regulatory developments, and technological innovations, encouraging cross-sector partnerships to drive real-world impact. The event will also contribute to policy recommendations and industry frameworks, ensuring authentication and traceability remain central to India’s anti-counterfeiting efforts. By leveraging this platform, ASPA aims to drive tangible change in brand protection and consumer safety.

Mahan Hazarika: How does ASPA see the future landscape of authentication technologies evolving in India and globally?

Manoj Kochar: ASPA sees the future of authentication technologies evolving toward a multi-layered, technology-driven approach that prioritizes security, scalability, and regulatory alignment. In India and globally, the increasing sophistication of counterfeiting and fraud is driving industries to adopt integrated authentication ecosystems combining physical, digital, and phygital solutions.

Physical authentication methods such as holograms, tamper-evident packaging, and covert security markers will continue to play a crucial role in industries like pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and automotive. At the same time, digital authentication technologies – blockchain-based traceability, AI-driven verification, and biometric authentication – are gaining traction for enhanced security and real-time tracking.

With AI and machine learning, authentication systems will become more adaptive, enabling real-time threat detection and anomaly recognition. The shift toward blockchain-powered traceability will ensure data integrity and transparency in supply chains, particularly in regulated industries. Additionally, IoT-enabled authentication, such as connected packaging, will offer businesses and consumers enhanced verification capabilities.

Regulatory frameworks in India and key global markets, including GDPR, AI regulations, and digital security policies, will shape authentication adoption. ASPA expects greater industry collaboration, policy standardization, and public-private partnerships to drive authentication advancements. Going forward, businesses must focus on scalable, interoperable authentication solutions that align with both security needs and evolving compliance requirements.