Police, merchants battle counterfeit goods

RCMP are launching a national initiative to educate business owners about counterfeit goods, knock-offs of brand-name items sold at discount prices.

Prince Edward Island is one of the first areas to join the initiative.

"Obviously, you know the saying is, if the deal is too good to be true it probably is," said Kathy Hambly, executive director of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce.

"What are the things that people need to look for, to be aware of, and to be concerned about, so that we're doing our due diligence."

Island police have investigated numerous complaints about counterfeit goods, including items such as clothing and electrical products. Hambly said counterfeit goods can cost legitimate companies thousands of jobs.

An information session with RCMP is scheduled for Tuesday morning at the Charlottetown Hotel to help Island business people learn how to recognize counterfeit products.