Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) executive director Stuart Charity has slammed the FCAI (Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries) for 'exaggerating' counterfeit activity in the Australian car parts market.
The FCAI recently reported that 6,000 fake car parts entering Australia had been seized by authorities with an estimated market value in excess of $550,000.
Charity said that the numbers are merely a drop in the ocean in comparison with the market at large.
“Individual car parts sold in Australia per year are in the multi-millions. It's a $13 billion industry.”
Charity criticised the FCAI for using scare tactics on consumers in relation to its 'Genuine Is Best' campaign.
“It's a campaign of self interest. The most disappointing aspect of this is that it's been done under the guise of an education campaign.”
Charity also said that consumers have nothing to fear when purchasing car parts through major dealers.
“Very few trade suppliers buy through the internet or eBay. They buy through established dealers like your Super Cheap Autos and your Bursons.”
The FCAI launched its 'Genuine Is Best' campaign in a bid to educate the public on what to look for when purchasing car parts as well as safety, durability and performance.