UK kettle control maker STRIX carried out 13 raids on dealers who were found with counterfeit controls or electric kettles fitted with counterfeit controls at a recent trade fair in China.

Many more exhibitors at the Canton Fair for Export Commodities in Guangzhou agreed to remove counterfeit products from their booths.

The fair had an Intellectual Property Enforcement office where manufacturers could complain and organise enforcement.

The enforcement office was set up by the organisers to enhance the reputation of the trade fair. "The complainant has to demonstrate the validity of his complaint and provide evidence of ownership of the intellectual Property registered in China," said STRIX.

"But once this is completed, the action is swift and decisive. Any unwillingness to co-operate is rewarded by the closure of the booth."

A week before the Canton raid, STRIX took direct action against 10 exhibitors at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair.

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council has a formidable reputation for respecting Intellectual Property, explained STRIX. Specialist lawyers ran a booth at the fair and, once given proof of IPR ownership, provided an efficient control of infringers.

Those unwilling to co-operate would not be exhibiting next year, ERT Weekly was told.