CCP fines certification firm Rs5 million over trademark violation

ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has imposed a Rs5 million fine on MCI Bureau of Inspection and Certifications Pakistan for the unauthorized use of the trademark and logo of the French certification company Bureau Veritas.

According to the CCP, MCI Bureau engaged in deceptive marketing practices by copying the distinctive features of Bureau Veritas’ trademark and logo, creating a misleading similarity that could confuse consumers and businesses.

The Commission noted that Bureau Veritas, established in 1828, has been providing testing, inspection, and certification services in Pakistan since 1999.

The CCP ruled that MCI Bureau’s actions amounted to an unfair attempt to benefit from the reputation of a globally recognized company.

The CCP has ordered MCI Bureau to immediately stop using the complainant’s trademark and logo. The Commission also criticized the company for offering certification services without the required accreditation.

In addition, the CCP said it could not find reliable evidence that MCI Bureau’s “Inspect Assure” service possessed the necessary qualifications or accreditation.

The Commission directed the company to submit a compliance report within 60 days, warning that failure to comply could result in further legal action.

The CCP emphasized that the decision is aimed not only at preventing trademark infringement but also at protecting consumers and maintaining trust in the business environment. It added that no company would be allowed to unfairly exploit the reputation of internationally recognized organizations.