Xerox-Lexmark has never authorized China’s Ninestar G&G to clone their toner products.
These clone toners are often misrepresented as “remanufactured,” when in fact, they are simply copies made without permission.
A recent post on Blog del Reciclador claims (see below) you can now sell third-party Xerox and Lexmark toner products “with complete confidence.” But that’s not the full story. The truth is, selling these products—regardless of how well they work—can still land you in legal hot water.
The Hidden Legal Risk
The Chinese manufacturers making these compatible toners have never been authorized by Xerox or Lexmark. These products often violate patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property protections held by the OEMs. And just because a toner works doesn’t mean it’s legal. OEMs are aggressive about protecting their patents and have sued third-party sellers for infringement for years.
The Lawsuits Keep Coming
Xerox and Lexmark have a long history of taking legal action against companies that sell compatible products without permission. This includes patent infringement cases and claims of misleading customers into thinking they’re buying original products. Courts have ruled in favor of OEMs multiple times, leaving sellers with heavy fines and costly legal fees.
The Illusion of “Confidence”
Blog del Reciclador is giving sellers a false sense of security. Even if compatible products seem like a bargain, the legal risk is still there. Patent infringement and trademark violations could lead to lawsuits or product bans from online marketplaces. In fact, many sellers have already faced the consequences of selling unlicensed goods.
Conclusion
While the market for third-party toners is big, so is the legal risk. Don’t be fooled into thinking you’re in the clear. Selling unauthorized products without the proper licenses could leave you open to lawsuits from Xerox and Lexmark. If you’re in this business, it’s only a matter of time before those legal papers show up on your doorstep.