Chiefs boss warns against fake merchandises

PNG Chiefs executive officer Lorna McPherson says the public must not purchase fake club merchandises currently circulated in the country *(Image: Supplied)*

The newly established PNG Chiefs rugby league franchise has issued a stern warning to the public following the discovery of counterfeit merchandise flooding local markets.

Unauthorised products featuring a fraudulent version of the club’s logo have surfaced in various local markets, retail stores, and online platforms across the country.

Club management has moved swiftly to stress that these items are completely unendorsed, illegal, and do not meet the team's quality standards.

PNG Chiefs chief executive officer Lorna McPherson expressed disappointment over the situation. McPherson said individuals are taking advantage of the public's immense excitement for the team's historic inclusion in the National Rugby League [NRL] competition.

"The pride our people have shown in the PNG Chiefs has been extraordinary, and it is disappointing that others are seeking to exploit that pride for their own gain," she said.

She emphasized that because the club has not yet officially released its branding, any merchandise currently available on the market is fake.

"We want to be very clear with our fans: our official logo and merchandise have not yet been released. Anything you see being sold today is not the real thing," McPherson said.

"Every counterfeit product sold takes money away from the game, away from the pathways, programs and community initiatives that this club was created to build for Papua New Guinea. When the time comes, buying official will mean backing the team and backing the future of rugby league in our country."

The franchise confirmed that it is already working closely with relevant law enforcement authorities and intends to pursue full legal action against individuals or businesses involved in manufacturing, distributing, or selling the pirated gear.

According to management, the club’s name, logo, and branding are strictly protected intellectual property, and unauthorised use constitutes a serious criminal and civil infringement.

The PNG Chiefs are historic pioneers for local sport, set to enter the NRL Telstra Premiership in 2028 as Papua New Guinea's inaugural professional franchise.

Representing a passionate fan base of 10 million people and thousand plus tribes, the club aims to use its platform to develop genuine pathways for homegrown talent.

The launch of the official PNG Chiefs logo, authentic merchandise line, and official sales start dates will be revealed in the coming months. Management advised that announcements will only be made through the club's official digital platforms and traditional news media.

The public is urged to remain vigilant. Anyone with information regarding the production or sale of counterfeit goods is encouraged to contact General Manager of Marketing, Peggy Maha, via email at Peggy.Maha@pngchiefs.com.pg.