The new state-backed appraisal center signals China’s commitment to tackling the problem, but solutions with more capacity and promise already exist in the private sector. Photo: Shutterstock
China is the world?s largest luxury market, and one where fakes are still rampant. It?s a huge problem not only for brands, but also for Chinese shoppers willing to pay for the real thing who are plagued by doubts that their purchases may not be genuine. In response, the China Electronic Commerce Association (????????) has launched an official luxury brand appraisal center (???????) in where items? authenticity can be evaluated. If luxury consumers have concerns about their appraisal report, they may resubmit it to the center for re-evaluation. The online portal is thorough, even allowing consumers to check an appraiser?s qualifications by inputting his or her certificate number, a process comparable to conducting an employment background check in the United States. And luxury consumers can check if their sellers are certified businesses. The new appraisal center is the only state-owned service of its kind in China, and while it signifies the Chinese government?s determination to combat counterfeit products, it?s really just a small step.
There are, however, several other ways to appraise luxury items in China.
Independent Appraisal Centers
In addition to the government-backed China Electronic Commerce Association appraisal center, there are several private companies already p...