Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development (ADDED) seized 227,617 counterfeit products in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Western Region during the first half of 2016.

The department conducted 494 inspections and seized counterfeit products that included auto spare parts, electronics, clothes, accessories and cosmetic products, in addition to 3,792 tonnes of fruits and vegetables, 448 sheep from vendors, seven kilos of niswar and three tonnes of clothes and household items.

The department also shut down a total of 43 establishments for violating laws pertaining to economic activity and commercial licensing. According to the report issued on Sunday, the ADDED conducted 71,595 field visits to commercial establishments in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region, issuing 3,959 fines. The report indicated that ADDED received 1,834 complaints from consumers and trade name owners regarding wrong or illegal practices and commercial fraud.

Khalifa Bin Salem Al Mansouri, acting undersecretary at ADDED, said that the department is keen on following up on and curbing all practices that affect the performance of businesses. He praised the role played by governmental, semi-governmental and private strategic partners in assisting ADDED to realise its strategic goals and achieve a competitive business environment in Abu Dhabi.