In a significant development for the fight against counterfeiting in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA) hosted a successful MEA Open House on April 24, 2025 at Anantara Downtown Dubai. The event, which attracted 46 delegates from 17 companies across the authentication, packaging, and brand protection industries, was a pivotal moment in ASPA’s ongoing mission to expand its global presence and foster stronger regional collaboration against counterfeit threats.
With the ever-growing challenges posed by counterfeit goods, the MEA Open House provided a much-needed platform for industry leaders, brands, and solution providers to discuss emerging issues, share insights, and explore innovative approaches to authentication and traceability. This event highlighted the increasing importance of safeguarding products, intellectual property, and consumer trust in the region.
The evening began with an engaging agenda moderated by Mr. Kaunain Shahidi, a renowned Packaging and Sustainability Expert, setting the tone for a dynamic and informative session. Mr. Manoj Kochar, President of ASPA, delivered the opening address, providing an overview of ASPA’s mission to safeguard products and consumers globally. He underscored the need for stronger authentication and traceability solutions and the growing role of ASPA in helping companies build secure, counterfeit-resistant supply chains.
Mr. Ranesh Bajaj, a prominent ASPA Governing Body Member and Chairperson of the ASPA MEA Chapter, delivered a powerful address that resonated with all attendees. He emphasized the urgency of tackling the counterfeiting crisis in the MEA region, particularly as counterfeit goods continue to infiltrate markets, threatening brand integrity and consumer safety. Mr. Bajaj called for collective action and encouraged companies to unite under the ASPA umbrella to form a robust, collaborative network of experts and stakeholders working together to counter these growing threats. During his speech, he proposed the formation of an Action Group based in Dubai, which would focus on increasing ASPA’s regional presence and advancing counterfeiting solutions. Encouragingly, six companies expressed immediate interest in joining this crucial initiative, signaling the eagerness within the region for such collaboration.
The event’s overwhelming response showcased the immense demand for robust solutions in the region. In fact, 11 companies from the MEA region expressed their intention to join ASPA as members, reinforcing the importance of collective efforts to combat counterfeiting and further strengthening ASPA’s influence within the region.
To conclude the formal session, Mr. Ankit Gupta, Vice President of ASPA, expressed sincere gratitude to all the delegates, partners, and stakeholders for their valuable participation. In his closing remarks, he reaffirmed ASPA’s commitment to driving change in the region and highlighted the importance of continuous collaboration to ensure safer and more transparent supply chains.
The evening culminated in a vibrant networking dinner and cocktail session, providing an opportunity for industry peers to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss potential partnerships that could lead to innovative solutions for securing supply chains and combating counterfeiting more effectively across the region.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Mr. Manoj Kochar, President of ASPA, shared his excitement: “The overwhelming response to the MEA Open House underscores the growing commitment among industry leaders to build a future rooted in authenticity and trust. At ASPA, we are proud to have created a dynamic platform that not only raises critical awareness but also forges actionable partnerships, empowering the fight against counterfeiting across borders. Our efforts in the MEA region represent a significant step forward in ASPA’s global engagement strategy.”
This MEA Open House is a crucial milestone in ASPA’s regional and global engagement efforts. It reinforces the organization’s commitment to regional empowerment, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of advanced physical and digital authentication technologies. As ASPA continues to grow its global influence, this event sets the stage for future initiatives that will help curb counterfeiting and protect brands and consumers alike in the MEA region and beyond.
