FRAI Urges to Intensify Crackdown on Illicit Trade and Counterfeit Products

New Delhi, 24 June 2026: The Federation of Retailers Association of India (FRAI), one of the country's leading representative bodies of small retailers and traders, organised a national seminar on “Confronting Illicit Trade in Modern Markets” in New Delhi today, bringing together policymakers, industry experts, law enforcement officials, consumer advocates and retail stakeholders to deliberate on the growing threat of illicit trade, counterfeit products and unfair market practices in India's rapidly evolving retail ecosystem.

The seminar highlighted the alarming rise of counterfeit and non-compliant products across multiple categories, including food and beverages, groceries, personal care products, cosmetics, tobacco products, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, emerging nicotine delivery products, electronics and household goods. Participants expressed concern that the proliferation of illicit products through both traditional and digital channels is posing significant risks to consumer safety, weakening trust in legitimate businesses and adversely impacting government revenues.

The discussions also focused on the challenges faced by millions of small retailers who are increasingly struggling against the dual threat of counterfeit products and unfair market practices. Participants noted that genuine retailers operate within regulatory frameworks, ensure product authenticity and remain accountable to consumers, while illicit operators continue to exploit gaps in enforcement and monitoring mechanisms.

During the event, FRAI submitted a representation to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution seeking stronger policy measures to curb illicit trade and counterfeit products. The association recommended stricter enforcement against illegal products, stronger penalties for repeat offenders, greater accountability across digital marketplaces, enhanced surveillance and market inspection mechanisms, and coordinated action among enforcement agencies and regulatory authorities to protect consumers and ensure fair market practices.

Concluding the seminar, FRAI reiterated that protecting consumers, preserving fair competition and safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of small retailers are critical to ensuring a healthy and sustainable retail ecosystem. The association called upon all stakeholders to work together to eliminate illicit trade and strengthen trust in India's marketplace.