Confiscated counterfeit items seized by Dubai Customs are now being recycled and repurposed at a groundbreaking facility in Dubai South.
This innovative textile recycling factory, operated by Landmark Group, is the first of its kind in the UAE and uses a closed-loop system, where waste is reused within the recycling process. Located at the DWC warehouse, the facility is a significant step toward sustainable practices.
A Guided Tour of the Facility
On Monday, attendees explored the newly launched factory and saw how automated conveyor belts handle wearable waste. Advanced technologies and manual inspections ensure precise sorting based on material types, colors, and recyclability. Workers in safety gear carefully oversee the process, removing non-recyclable materials and performing quality checks.
Rajesh Garg, Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer of Landmark Retail, shared insights during the event. “We received the confiscated items from Dubai Customs last weekend. This is the first batch, and based on the counterfeit brands, we are following their guidelines for proper disposal,” Garg explained.
In a dedicated section of the factory, staff remove plastic and metallic accessories from the clothing to streamline the recycling process. Garg emphasized that the facility provides a responsible way to handle counterfeit products, stating, “As a large brand, we do not resell these items in their current form, but recycling them is an excellent use of the facility.”
Promoting a Circular Economy
This factory embodies the UAE’s commitment to creating a circular economy, where waste transforms into resources. Dubai Customs reported that counterfeit goods worth over Dh5.4 million were seized in 13 incidents during the first quarter of this year. Repurposing such goods ensures environmental and ethical disposal.
Encouraging Residents to Donate Wearables
In addition to recycling confiscated items, the Landmark Group encourages residents to donate pre-loved wearable fabrics. Collection boxes are available in their stores, and customers receive vouchers worth Dh10 to Dh20 for their contributions, which can be redeemed during purchases. Garg explained, “We hope people see this as a bigger responsibility and take part willingly.”
The UAE’s Role in Sustainable Commerce
Experts highlight the UAE’s strategic location as ideal for becoming a global hub for sustainable practices. “The UAE’s central position in global logistics and aviation makes it the perfect place to bring in products, convert them into recycled goods, and export them back,” added Garg.
This initiative reflects the UAE’s vision for sustainability, blending innovation, responsibility, and practicality to tackle waste management challenges.
