E-Malt.com News article: Vietnam: Heineken “absolutely on top” of counterfeiting issues

Heineken insists it is “absolutely on top” of the counterfeiting issues that can appear in emerging markets, after a Vietnamese gang producing fake Tiger and Heineken was busted last week, Beverage Daily reported on June, 26.

According to Heineken, the suspects mixed genuine Heineken or Tiger beer with other beers – with an estimated counterfeit production rate of less than 50 crates per day – then delivered the counterfeit products to outlets (reportedly restaurants, eateries) in the Tan Binh District of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC).

John-Paul Schuirink, Heineken financial communications manager, said: “Although it typically concerns small volumes and all international brewers are confronted with counterfeit beers in emerging markets from time to time, we absolutely are on top of this issue.”

Describing Heineken as the leader in the international premium segment, Schuirink said that the quality and integrity of the world’s third-largest brewer’s beers was vital.

“Our consumers deserve to enjoy a real Heineken beer when they buy or order one. We are working closely with the authorities and other brewers to fight these brand infringements”, he said.

Vietnam Brewery Limited – which brews and distributes Heineken and Tiger in the country – said on June, 21 that it had successfully stopped counterfeiting of all its products, in collaboration with HCMC Economic Police.

VBL said its vigilant market control system enabled it to identify suspected counterfeit Heineken and Tiger bottles in the market, and tipped off the police who investigated the issue.

HCMC Economic Police subsequently arrested the suspects and seized the fakes, in a raid that took place in the Tan Binh District on June, 18.

According to Vietnam news outlet Thanh Nien, the ring mixed local (cheaper) brand Saigon with Heineken or Tiger in a 50:50 ration into the more expensive brands’ bottles, working without any mechanical equipment, and without using gloves or protective clothing.


28 June, 2013