Swiss firm Haelixa introduces product-level anti-counterfeit service

23/02/2026
Swiss technology company Haelixa has launched a DNA-based Authenticity Service to help luxury brands verify products, including leather accessories and watch straps, and reduce counterfeit infiltration and fraudulent returns.

OECD analysis estimates that counterfeiting causes around $250 billion (€230 billion) in annual losses across the global luxury sector. Counterfeit goods increasingly enter legitimate channels such as repairs, resale and returns, creating operational and reputational risks for brands.

Haelixa’s system embeds a nano-sized, brand-specific DNA marker directly into materials during production. The marker is invisible, permanent and resistant to removal, copying or substitution, remaining with the product throughout its lifecycle.

Authentication is performed using a swab and qPCR test, providing a yes-or-no result within 30 minutes. Compact devices allow on-site verification by retail and service teams without specialist training.

The system is intended for high-value products including watches, jewellery and leather accessories, and can complement Digital Product Passports and NFC systems to provide both physical and digital verification.