Council getting tough on ‘PNG Made’ logo

By CLARISSA MOI
The PNG Manufacturers’ Council has placed strict controls on the use of the ‘PNG Made’ logo, says chief executive officer Chey Scovell.
“Because we have ensured it is only applied to products of stringent quality, it has become a trusted symbol by our people,” he said.
“Illicit traders are now taking advantage of this trust.”
Scovell was responding to questions on the ‘PNG Made’ logo printed on packets of counterfeit So Klin detergent stopped by Customs and destroyed in Lae by Super Value Stores.
In applauding Customs for its efforts, Scovell said they were concerned that public servants entrusted to represent the country’s national trade interests, were seemingly taking no action.
“Rules of origin is a cornerstone of international trade,” he said.
“In this instance, officials in Indonesia are certifying that goods actually made in Indonesia can claim to be made in PNG – and further these Indonesian officials are supporting the undermining of our national laws.”
Scovell said China was another country which seemed to take insufficient interest in protecting the trade reputation of their country.
“They are prepared to make big noises about non-discriminatory treatment to penetrate other nations, but are silent when it comes to managing the abuse of process by their own businesses and exporters,” he said.
“We also have instances where Fiji businesses have manufactured their goods in China, printed ‘Made in Fiji’ on the carton, and they export direct from China to PNG and other MSG countries so that they can avoid duty.
“Thankfully, the Fiji leadership quickly addressed this matter.
“The time is long overdue for the leadership of Indonesia and China to do the same.”
Scovell said they encouraged trade officials and leaders to pursue amendments to the rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Apec so that the country of origin for falsely-declared goods would also be liable to pay a fine.
“I believe this would be a very easy and effective way to tackle illicit trade,” he said.