Online platforms fight fakes

Chinese online retailers have stepped up efforts to crack down on counterfeit products sold by third-party vendors on their online marketplaces.

Online discounter Pinduoduo Inc has been criticized in the media for selling low-priced knockoffs that resemble products made by well-known manufacturers, since its initial public offering in the United States in late July. The scathing reports have attracted the attention of China's market watchdog, the State Administration for Market Regulation.

The authority announced in August that Pinduoduo should strengthen its platform management, and regulate business activities of third-party vendors to maintain fair competition.