The Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA) successfully concluded its MEA Open House 2025 on 24 April at Anantara Downtown Dubai, advancing its mission to curb counterfeiting through strengthened regional collaboration. The event brought together 46 delegates from 17 companies involved in authentication, brand protection, and packaging technologies, reinforcing ASPA’s strategic expansion into the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
Moderated by Kaunain Shahidi, a packaging and sustainability expert, the session began with an introduction by ASPA President Manoj Kochar, who outlined the association’s goals to protect brands and consumers via effective authentication and traceability solutions.
A keynote by Ranesh Bajaj, Chairperson of the ASPA MEA Chapter, spotlighted the urgency of cross-industry collaboration to address counterfeiting threats. He proposed forming a Dubai-based “Action Group” to strengthen ASPA’s activities in the region—an initiative welcomed by six regional companies.
Momentum continued as 11 companies expressed interest in joining ASPA, highlighting growing industry alignment with ASPA’s vision. Closing the event, ASPA Vice President Ankit Gupta thanked stakeholders for their active participation.
The evening concluded with a networking dinner and cocktails, offering delegates the opportunity to explore partnerships aimed at more secure and transparent regional supply chains.
Mr. Kochar emphasized, “This overwhelming response confirms the urgency and resolve across the MEA region to champion authenticity and trust. ASPA is proud to be a catalyst for meaningful action.”
The MEA Open House marks a pivotal moment in ASPA’s global outreach, boosting regional knowledge exchange and collaboration on cutting-edge physical and digital authentication technologies.
