Helping to fight counterfeiting in Filipino cosmetics market using GS1 barcodes | 04-09-2024 |
In an ongoing effort to support the Philippines’ retail industry growth and innovation, GS1 Philippines, is helping to advance barcode awareness and revolutionize product authenticity and visibility through its GS1 Activate and Global Migration to 2D seminars. It recently conducted a series of these events with the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP). GS1 Philippines is part of the global network which is in the process of rolling out GS1 Digital Link through the Sunrise 27 program
The seminars, attended by representatives from various cosmetics companies in the country, featured courses including tackling the latest trends and technologies in the global supply chain, the benefits of integrating legitimate and streamlined barcode system in their products, and the global migration to 2D barcodes and how they can adapt to this push.
“The country’s cosmetic industry is worth over $1 billion and demand continues to grow. At CCIP, we aim to enhance the industry’s global competitiveness by ensuring product authenticity, providing comprehensive product information and combating counterfeit products, all of which are crucial for consumer confidence. We are working hand in hand with GS1 Philippines to continue realizing this commitment,” explained CCIP former President and GS1 Philippines corporate secretary Anna Marie Anastacio.
The beauty and personal care market in the Philippines is projected to generate US $6.47 billion in revenue in 2024. However, the cosmetics industry faces significant challenges, notably the prevalence of counterfeit products. Recently, banned beauty items have been spotted and sold in local shops in Taguig. In 2023, cosmetic products were prominent among the counterfeit goods seized by the Bureau of Customs.
Efforts to combat this issue are ongoing, with local government units and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issuing advisories and taking measures to ensure product authenticity and consumer safety. By adopting GS1 standards and leveraging barcode technology, cosmetics companies can ensure product authenticity, improve inventory management and strengthen consumer trust, says the organisation. The seminars explain how GS1 standards offer a framework for precise product identification and tracking, while the 1D linear barcode and the 2D code facilitate the capture of detailed product information.
Through conducting seminars and other industry activities, GS1 Philippines aims to address challenges by providing industry professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance product traceability and transparency for their businesses and consumers.
“We at GS1 Philippines are proud partner to with CCIP to strengthen operational efficiency and consumer confidence in the cosmetics sector. With the evolving beauty landscape and Filipino beauty brands continuing to rise globally, authenticity and the availability of accurate product information are essential for fostering a more reliable and accountable marketplace,” commented GS1 Philippines President Roberto ”Bobby” Claudio.
The organization aims to prepare local industries for the global shift to 2D barcodes by 2027, aligning with international standards and enhancing the Philippines’ competitiveness in the global market.
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