Nigeria Targets Counterfeit Cosmetics with QR Code Traceability System

THE WHAT? Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has established a Joint Inter-Agency Committee to develop a Digital Traceability Portal aimed at curbing the proliferation of counterfeit cosmetic and personal care products. The platform will use QR codes to enable verification of product authenticity and trace supply chain movements.

THE DETAILS The newly formed committee includes representatives from key national agencies such as NAFDAC, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Anti-Counterfeiting Collaboration, among others. Products will be issued unique QR codes, providing stakeholders—including consumers, retailers, and regulators—real-time access to product origin and legitimacy data. While similar QR code initiatives have faced criticism in other markets, including India, for vulnerability to cloning and redirection to malicious sites, the FCCPC has stated its commitment to working with stakeholders to implement secure and effective traceability technologies. Specifics on the platform’s technical implementation have yet to be disclosed.

THE WHY?  The rise of counterfeit cosmetics in Nigeria has not only posed significant health risks to consumers but also undercut legitimate manufacturers and brands. The introduction of a national traceability system seeks to safeguard consumer trust, protect brand equity, and enhance regulatory oversight. With increasing risks driven by advances in generative AI and digital forgery, Nigeria’s initiative could signal a regional shift toward digital authentication solutions in the personal care sector.

Source: securingindustry

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