Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the issue of counterfeit certification in the redwood market, specifically in Xianyou County, Fujian, where some merchants are selling blood sandalwood as the more expensive small-leaf sandalwood, leading to consumer rights violations and market disorder [2][3][4]. Group 1: Investigation and Response - A joint investigation team was established on August 24 following a report by CCTV, which revealed that some merchants were falsifying testing certificates [2]. - The market regulatory authorities have seized the counterfeit certificates and products, and legal investigations are underway against the individuals involved in the forgery [2]. - The county plans to implement industry-specific rectifications and improve long-term regulatory mechanisms to protect consumer rights and maintain industry reputation [2]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Consumer Impact - There are complaints from consumers regarding the sale of redwood products, with issues of material misrepresentation and inflated prices emerging in the market [3]. - Blood sandalwood, which is not classified as national standard redwood, costs approximately 10,000 yuan per ton, while small-leaf sandalwood, a valuable national standard redwood, can reach 400,000 yuan per ton [4]. - In Xianyou, counterfeit small-leaf sandalwood bracelets, originally worth 20 yuan, are being sold for hundreds of yuan, indicating significant market manipulation [4]. Group 3: Counterfeit Certification Practices - A local certification agency was found operating out of a residential area, providing easily obtainable counterfeit certificates for a low price of 0.8 yuan each [4]. - These fake certificates often come with scannable codes that provide false information, misleading consumers and allowing counterfeit products to be marketed as legitimate [4]. - Some e-commerce platforms are using these counterfeit certificates as quality guarantees, promoting "buy fake, compensation guaranteed" policies [4].

Core Viewpoint - The jade market in Shifosi Town, Nanyang, Henan, which is one of the largest processing and trading hubs for Hetian jade in China, has become a haven for fraudsters, undermining consumer trust and damaging the industry's reputation [1] Group 1: Market Conditions - The jade and crystal consumption has been rising in recent years, driven by emotional value, aesthetic demand, and high investment and collectible value [1] - However, the prevalence of counterfeit products, including low-quality Qinghai and Han jade being sold as genuine Hetian jade, has created a toxic environment where honest businesses struggle to survive [1] Group 2: Fraud and Consumer Trust - The exposure of a full chain of fraud has shattered consumer confidence, with scripted sales tactics making it difficult for consumers to protect themselves [1] - The industry is facing a vicious cycle where bad practices drive out good ones, leading to a polluted market environment [1] Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - Despite previous exposés, such as the 2022 March 15 Gala revealing issues in the jade market, fraudulent businesses continue to re-emerge under new names, indicating weak regulatory enforcement and low penalties for violations [1] - The intertwining of interests within the industry complicates the enforcement of regulations, allowing fraud to persist [1] Group 4: Industry Outlook - The jade industry must move away from its current murky state towards a clearer, more professional environment to restore its reputation and the trust of consumers [1]