‘Creating Originals Worth Imitating’: Mokobara On Claims Of Selling Chinese Bags At High Prices

Last Updated:January 20, 2025, 14:53 IST

Mokobara faced backlash after a social media influencer accused the luggage brand of selling Chinese-made bags at inflated prices.

Makobara was founded in 2019. (Photo Credits: X)

A social media influencer recently sparked controversy by accusing Mokobara, a Bengaluru-based luggage brand, of selling bags that closely resemble products found on other e-commerce platforms at much lower prices. The influencer claimed that the bags being sold by Mokobara were possibly manufactured in China and marketed as premium items, raising doubts about the authenticity of the products.

This led to speculation that Mokobara might be “white labelling” Chinese-made bags and reselling them under their own brand at inflated rates. The accusations generated significant buzz online. While many suggested that the cheaper alternatives found elsewhere could be counterfeit, others questioned the brand’s transparency. In response to the growing debate, Mokobara took to social media to address the claims.

In a tweet posted on X, the company responded, “While the world debates the chicken or the egg, we’re focussed on what we do best – creating originals worth imitating. Dropping now: the Moko x Naruto Series – from one fan to another.”

In an attempt to turn the controversy into an opportunity, Mokobara offered a 10 per cent “originality” discount on the new collection with the code “WHITELABEL.”

“To our Moko fam, this one’s for you. Use code WHITELABEL to get 10 per cent off on originality!” the company wrote. Along with the post, they also shared a promotional video showcasing the product.

Mokobara’s response triggered a mix of reactions from social media users in the comments.

One user commented, “Originality speaks louder than assumptions. Let the product do the talking. Class dismissed.”

Another said, “My man shut the tweets. Mic drop moments.”

Someone else reacted sharply, writing, “Very disappointing reply. Mokobara taking their user base for granted. Solid response would have been appreciated instead of this childish witty response. If it’s white labelling, accept it, if not prove it, honesty would have been appreciated.”

“That’s such a marketing stunt more than a clarification or coming out clean,” a person pointed out.

Mokobara was established in 2019 by Sangeet Agrawal and Navin Parwal, both former executives at Urban Ladder. The brand focuses on offering a range of laptop bags, suitcases and other travel accessories, positioning itself in the mid-premium to premium market. Mokobara faces competition from well-established luggage brands like American Tourister, VIP and Samsonite.

In February 2024, Mokobara had raised over Rs 100 crore during its Series B funding round.