The Emerging Challenge of Seed Counterfeiting: Empirical Evidence from Ethiopia

Abstract

Seed counterfeiting is becoming a serious concern and a discussion agenda, as it threatens the growing seed industry in Ethiopia. However, information on the extent, drive practices, and prevention measures of counterfeit seed is scarce. Based on 48 semi structured interviews with representatives from regulatory agencies, seed companies, and government offices, we have identified the causes, sources, practices, consequences, and combating measures of seed counterfeiting in the country. Hybrid maize is the primary crop highly affected by counterfeiting, followed by vegetable seeds. We found that dressing grains with artificial color, adulteration, label imitation, package reuse, and mislabeling are the most common practices of seed counterfeiting. Local grain traders and agro-dealers are the top seed counterfeiters. Coordinated efforts are essential for awareness creation and timely information about the effect of counterfeit seeds to stakeholders, including farmers, seed companies, regulatory agencies, law-enforcing offices, and policymakers, to combat counterfeiting. Moreover, the study suggests improving the seed supply, enforcing measures, using digital technologies, strengthening regulatory systems, and effectively coordinating among relevant actors to address counterfeit seeds in Ethiopia.