Awareness and Extent of Counterfeiting in Kenya Firm-Level Survey Report 2025
Research on Levels of Awareness and Extent of Counterfeiting in Kenya Firm-Level Survey Report 2025
Counterfeiting remains a significant threat to Kenya's economy, impacting industries, public health, and consumer trust. This study explores the prevalence, trends, and effects of
counterfeiting across four key sectors: automotive spare parts, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, energy, electronics and electrical goods, and alcoholic beverages. Combining quantitative firm-level surveys and qualitative key informant interviews, the report provides actionable strategies to combat counterfeiting.
The findings indicate that 39% of firms sell products online, with considerable sectoral variation. Pharmaceuticals have the lowest online presence at 18% due to strict regulations,
while automotive spare parts (47%) and electronics (42%) exhibit higher e-commerce adoption. Awareness of counterfeit goods has risen to 71%, up from 30% in 2020, with smaller and locally owned firms showing higher awareness due to direct exposure to counterfeiting risks.
On average, 18% of products are counterfeited, with automotive spare parts (21%) and alcoholic beverages (19%) experiencing the highest prevalence. 53% of respondents reported an increase in counterfeit incidences over the past year, driven by consumer demand for cheaper products, inadequate enforcement, and economic downturns. The impacts include revenue loss, brand damage, and operational disruptions, particularly affecting smaller firms.
Counterfeit goods are primarily distributed through online platforms, especially social media and local e-commerce sites, followed by street sellers and kiosks. The most affected products in the automotive sector are spark plugs and engine parts, while over-the-counter drugs and personal protective equipment are common in pharmaceuticals. In electronics, smartphones and home appliances are frequently counterfeited, whereas gin and vodka are the most affected in alcoholic beverages.
