The International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition’s decision to extend an olive branch to Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba has proved enormously controversial, with several top-tier brands opting to leave the prestigious global nonprofit rather than retain membership alongside one of the world’s most notorious counterfeit platforms. This week, diamond giant Tiffany & Co became the latest brand to announce its exit from the IACC since the April decision, following in the footsteps of fashion labels Gucci and Michael Kors.  

‘Dangerous and damaging’

Though Tiffany & Co has declined to confirm the reasons behind its departure, a statement from Michael Kors announcing its own exit criticised the IACC board for providing ‘cover to our most dangerous and damaging adversary’ by admitting Alibaba. The IACC board, which voted unanimously to grant membership to the e-commerce group, has countered that the fight against counterfeits must include the marketplaces in which they are sold. Tiffany & Co was itself a member of the IACC board which voted in favour of the admission.

Alibaba steps up

Tiffany & Co’s announcement comes as Alibaba announces plans to step-up the fight against luxury fakes selling on the e-commerce giant’s Taobao platform. From May 20, sellers will be required to provide proof of authenticity for luxury goods, such as a receipt or an authentication letter from the brand itself, or face having their products removed from the site. Taobao may also freeze account funds for vendors who fail to pass authenticity examinations for luxury products.

Sources: Wall Street Journal; Reuters; The Fashion Law