This sparked doubts about Mokobara's products, with some speculating that the brand might be selling rebranded Chinese-made bags at inflated prices. Others suggested that the cheaper alternatives were likely counterfeit versions. In response, the company took to social media, tweeting, "While the world debates the chicken or the egg, we're focused on what we do best – creating originals worth imitating."
Amidst the controversy, Mokobara launched a new product line, the Moko x Naruto Series, offering a 10% discount with the promo code "WHITELABEL" to address the allegations. The company invited its customers to use the code, writing, “To our Moko fam, this one’s for you. Use code WHITELABEL to get 10 percent off on originality!” However, the response was met with mixed reactions on X (formerly Twitter), with some appreciating the playful approach, while others criticized the company for not addressing the issue directly.
Some users defended the brand, noting that many top companies, including well-established ones, source products from China or other countries. A user pointed out that "manufacturing low-tech stuff in China carries the risk of copycats." Others, however, felt that the brand’s response was a marketing stunt rather than a proper clarification.
Mokobara, founded in 2019 by former Urban Ladder executives Sangeet Agrawal and Navin Parwal, specializes in mid-premium to premium travel accessories, including laptop bags and suitcases. The company competes with established luggage brands like American Tourister, VIP, and Samsonite. Mokobara secured Rs 100 crore in Series B funding in February 2024, indicating significant growth in the direct-to-consumer luggage market.
