BUSINESSES and traders in Warrington have been warned of the need to be careful when importing goods in the run up to Christmas.
Not only could they innocently fall foul of the law by supplying counterfeit goods but it could cost them financially.
The warning from the borough council’s trading standards department follows a recent case concerning the importing and selling of electrical goods.
After working with the trader it became clear to trading standards that the goods were counterfeit and potentially unsafe. This time, the trader was able to stop importation of the goods and managed to prevent any financial loss to themselves.
Leading up to Christmas other traders may also decide to experiment with supplying new lines and innocently fall foul of the law.
With the opening of new markets, and the greater ease with which people can now purchase items in bulk, from overseas, those with little experience of importing and supplying goods may decide to take a chance.
However, by doing so they run the risk that products will be of inferior quality and maybe counterfeit.
Trading standards would advise both customers and traders to exercise caution when buying goods.
A spokesman said: “Ask yourself who is offering the goods? In what circumstances are the goods being offered? And what is the price?
“All these things will give clues about the authenticity and legitimacy of goods being offered. What may initially seem like a bargain could well be a bad deal or, in the worst case scenario, have a serious impact on your health.”
Trading Standards can give advice about goods intended for supply or importation, and anyone in doubt can contact them on 08454 040506.
