Kenya is losing more than Ksh 800 billion each year due to the infiltration of counterfeit goods in its market, according to the 2025 Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Consumer Survey. The report paints a grim picture, revealing that 8 in 10 Kenyans have encountered fake products a growing concern with serious economic and health implications.
The most affected sector is healthcare, where counterfeit antibiotics and malaria drugs dominate, accounting for 89.28% of fake medicines. This poses a severe threat to public health, as ineffective treatments can lead to drug resistance and fatalities. “It’s alarming that lifesaving drugs are being faked on such a large scale,” said ACA Executive Director Robi Mbugua.
Agriculture is another heavily impacted sector, with 89.16% of Kenyans reporting fake pesticides, fertilizers, insecticides, and animal feeds. These counterfeit inputs undermine food security and hurt farmers’ livelihoods.
The survey also reveals that personal care products including skincare items, toothpaste, shampoos, and sanitizers account for 88.32% of counterfeit goods. In the automotive industry, fake car parts and accessories were reported by 81.89% of respondents, while construction materials like cement and roofing tiles were cited by 76.72%.
Petroleum products are not spared, with 76.68% of consumers encountering fake fuel and lubricants. Even popular beverages are affected; 75.89% of Kenyans have come across counterfeit non-alcoholic drinks like fruit juices and sodas. Alcoholic drinks are also widely faked, with counterfeit wine (50.12%), beer (47.44%), whiskey (42.68%), and vodka (36.95%) in circulation.
The report highlights a concerning rise in counterfeit sales through online platforms, which now account for 31.27% of all fake purchases. Despite the risks, many Kenyans opt for cheaper products, often unaware or dismissive of their authenticity.
Street sellers (59.37%) and kiosks (54.42%) remain the top sources of counterfeit goods, followed by supermarkets (21%).
ACA urges consumers to be vigilant and verify product authenticity before purchasing. It also calls for stricter enforcement, public education, and collaboration with tech platforms to curb the online sale of counterfeit goods.
