Farrel Frank, Managing Director of SATAGA, recently joined SAfm to discuss the growing presence of counterfeit products — including trading cards, board games and low-quality toys.
SATAGA Highlights Rising Risks in SAfm Interview
As the festive season approaches, the South African Toys & Games Association (SATAGA) is urging consumers to stay vigilant amid a significant rise in counterfeit toys, board games and trading cards entering the South African market.
Farrel Frank, Managing Director of SATAGA, recently joined SAfm to discuss the growing presence of counterfeit products — including trading cards, board games and low-quality toys. These goods are increasingly being sold at intersections, informal markets, online sales platforms, social media sites and in mainstream shopping centresand through unverified online sellers offering deals that seem “too good to be true.”
While many counterfeit items may appear convincing, Farrel emphasised that they bypass safety, quality and regulatory standards required of legitimate manufacturers. This creates real health and safety risks for children and families, with reported issues including:
• No safety or quality testing
• Toxic materials, sharp components and choking hazards
• Faulty or dangerous electronic parts or batteries
• No collectible or resale value for trading cards
• Not being able to participate in tournaments or disqualification
• Links to organised criminal networks
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, Farrel highlighted the wider social impact of counterfeit goods. Proceeds from these sales often fund serious organised crime, contributing to activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and arms smuggling.
“With the festive season being the peak period for counterfeit activity, consumers must remain alert,” Farrel noted. “Purchasing from authorised retailers and licensed distributors is the most effective way to ensure products are safe, legitimate and compliant.”
SATAGA encourages parents, collectors and gift-shoppers to double-check packaging, verify online retailers, and familiarise themselves with the signs of counterfeit products — especially as demand surges in the lead-up to the holidays.
🎧 Listen to the full SAfm interview below
🔗 Learn more about identifying counterfeit toys and trading cards: www.sataga.org.za