Customers are urged to prioritise their health over the temptation of low-priced goods during a conference in HCM City on January 7. — Photo ttbc-hcm.gov.vn

HCM CITY — Speaking at a panel discussion on food safety and counterfeit prevention in HCM City on January 7, authorities warned of a surge in fake and substandard goods ahead of the Lunar New Year, particularly across e-commerce platforms.

According to Nguyễn Quang Huy, deputy head of the HCM City’s Market Surveillance Agency (Department of Industry and Trade), fake and low quality goods tend to surge before Tết, with increasingly sophisticated methods.

He said offenders often use anonymous accounts and exploit images of celebrities to mislead consumers.

Authorities have detected and handled multiple warehouses storing counterfeit and low-quality goods, with seized volumes reaching several tonnes.

Huy added that offenders usually rent remote warehouses for production and packaging and conduct transactions through cash-on-delivery services, making inspections more difficult.

Ahead of Tết, the agency has increased training sessions for businesses and urged consumers to only buy quality products and report suspected violations.

Common counterfeit items include homemade products and regional specialities that have not been inspected and lack clear origins.

From a cybersecurity perspective, Hồ Thọ Hải, deputy head of the Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Division of the HCM City Police, warned consumers against prioritising low prices over product quality, citing potential health risks. 

Regarding food safety, Phạm Khánh Phong Lan, director of the HCM City Food Safety Department, said some producers continue to use harmful chemicals to reduce costs and increase output for profit.

She noted that many customers still prioritise low prices, even when products are unusually cheap and pose potential risks. 

Changing consumption habits, she said, is a long-term issue linked to living standards and public awareness.

Other experts highlighted the need for stronger coordination among regulators, businesses and the media to prevent trade fraud and promote safe, sustainable food production. — VNS