New Twist As Ksh50M Goods Seized From China Square Mall

The controversy surrounding China Square, a popular shopping destination located at Unicity Mall along Thika Road, took a new turn after authorities disclosed that it was under investigation.

The store which was said to be a hub for products and businesses, selling everything from electronics to clothing, is being accused of rivalling business with a Kenyan company.

The firm has claimed ownership of the trade mark for the name "Finder", under which Finder-branded goods are sold at China Square.

Entrance to China Square Mall. /FILE

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority further revealed that it Seized goods worth Ksh50 million from the store for an audit amidst ongoing investigations.

ACA officers camped inside the mall for the better part of Monday, February 27 during its indefinite closure, carrying out audits of the products to ascertain the claims.

“We have done a search in the place and the investigation is still ongoing. We will be able to give a statement on that after we conclude our investigation,” ACA Regional Manager Ibrahim Bule told the media.

China Square's legal team stated that they are working together with the government and the Kenyan company to resolve the standoff, with Lawyer Josephine Oyombe noting that ACA officers visited the mall to check on the previously sealed goods.

China Square, which announced that it was closing the premises indefinitely, is yet to speak on a timeline as to when it will be reopened.

In a statement dated Sunday, February 26, China Square Limited identified four key issues; public safety issues, shortage of tills, misleading statements and overrating by customers on the internet, which culminated in its closure until further notice.

“We take the safety and satisfaction of our customers seriously and are committed to resolving these issues as quickly as possible. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. We are committed to providing you with the best service possible, and we hope to have the opportunity to serve you again soon,” the company stated at the time.

Despite the concerns raised through the closure of China Square Limited among customers, with some expressing disappointment over the decision, the company promised to keep them updated on any developments, and customers were advised to contact the company if they have any questions or concerns.

China Square gained attention for creating a versatile shopping centre that some social media users claimed was challenging the dominance of Eastleigh, Kamukunji, and Dubois Road in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).

The hype however upset Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria who hinted at plans to lease the space to local traders. He particularly demanded, in an offer directed towards Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Paul Wainaina, that the university in which the mall is hosted, buys out all spaces from the mall traders and reserves them for local traders.

Kuria, later on, changed his mind and revealed that he would assist the owner, Lei Cheng, to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya.

Collage of China Square proprietor Lei Cheng and inside the store. /DAILY NATION