Industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts convened at the 6th Traceability and Authentication Forum (TAF) 2025 in New Delhi to address the growing risks of counterfeiting in global supply chains. Organized by the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA), the 2-day forum emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to protect trade networks, ensure consumer safety, and strengthen authentication measures across key sectors, including pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and agriculture.

Speaking at the forum, Manoj Kochar, president of ASPA, highlighted the economic and safety risks posed by counterfeit goods. “Counterfeit products impact industries worldwide, affecting trade, consumer confidence, and public health. Addressing this requires collaboration across borders, with stronger enforcement mechanisms and widespread adoption of authentication technologies.”

He called for governments to enhance regulatory frameworks and for industries to integrate AI, blockchain, and IoT solutions to improve supply chain transparency. “A coordinated approach combining policy action and technology is essential to prevent counterfeit infiltration and safeguard global supply chains.”

Ankit Gupta, vice president of ASPA, stressed the financial and operational threats counterfeit goods pose to legitimate businesses. “Supply chains are the foundation of global commerce. If counterfeit products enter the system, they disrupt markets, undermine investments, and weaken economic stability. This event stands as one of the largest platforms for exchanging ideas and solutions. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, as we work together to address the pressing challenges in brand protection and supply chain security.”

Gupta reiterated ASPA’s commitment to Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision, stating, “Our focus must be on ‘Make in India, not Fake in India.’ Securing supply chains is essential to protecting trade, innovation, and consumer trust.”

RG Agarwal, chairman emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech, addressed participants at the Traceability and Authentication Forum (TAF) 2025, saying, “It’s an honor to be part of the Traceability and Authentication Forum, a platform that fosters collaboration among industry leaders. Food security is a critical issue for every country, and it’s essential that both farmers and consumers understand the importance of traceability and product authenticity. Whether in agriculture or pharmaceuticals, educating people on systems that ensure product authenticity is crucial.”

Agarwal also discussed the growing challenge of cybercrime, highlighting the success of government awareness campaigns, such as caller tunes and social media initiatives, in raising public awareness. “I believe similar large-scale campaigns focusing on counterfeiting and fake products are needed to educate the masses. Inspired by the government’s ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ campaign, we launched ‘Jago Kisaan Jago,’ an initiative aimed at educating farmers. This campaign encourages farmers to request and verify bills for agricultural products like pesticides to ensure their authenticity and prevent counterfeit goods from entering the market. I believe that collaboration between regulatory agencies and industry players will be key in developing new technologies and raising awareness to more effectively tackle counterfeiting.”

TAF 2025 emphasized the vital role of government in implementing and enforcing robust anti-counterfeiting regulations, ensuring comprehensive protection for both businesses and consumers. Also, there was a strong call for businesses to embrace advanced authentication technologies and strengthen traceability within their supply chains.

TAF 2025 served as a prime example of the power of collaboration, bringing together leaders from diverse sectors to share expertise and devise solutions to combat counterfeiting. Events like TAF demonstrate the collective strength that can be achieved when industries, regulators, and consumers join forces. Industry leaders urged stakeholders to advocate for greater transparency and accountability, ensuring that consumers are educated about the risks of counterfeit products and can make informed choices. ASPA calls for all stakeholders – governments, businesses, and consumers – to unite in this global fight, strengthening supply chains and safeguarding product integrity, economic resilience, and consumer safety in an interconnected world.