Counterfeit Designer Goods Valued Over $125,000 Seized by CBP in New York

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have successfully intercepted a significant quantity of counterfeit designer items across the Ports of Rochester and Buffalo, New York, with a combined estimated manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) exceeding $125,000. The seizures, which occurred over the past month, involved a range of luxury goods including watches, handbags, and clothing.

The operation involved meticulous inspections of multiple incoming shipments by CBP officers and import specialists. During these examinations, it was determined that a variety of “designer” items bore counterfeit trademarks, leading to their seizure. Specifically, watches bearing marks identical or nearly indistinguishable from those of a registered trademark were confiscated in Rochester. Had these watches been genuine, their total MSRP would have been approximately $82,000. In addition to the watches, counterfeit jewelry, designer handbags, and clothing with an estimated authentic MSRP of around $43,000 were also seized across both ports.

These actions underscore CBP’s ongoing commitment to protecting American businesses and consumers from fraudulent products. The agency has the legal authority to detain, seize, and ultimately destroy imported merchandise that infringes upon registered trademarks or copyrights. This process involves goods bearing trademarks or copyrights that have been registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or the U.S. Copyright Office and subsequently recorded with CBP. Beyond trademark infringements, CBP also addresses other violations such as incorrect country-of-origin labeling, misclassification of goods, and issues related to health, safety, and valuation.

The trade in counterfeit and pirated goods poses a considerable threat to the American economy, impacting business competitiveness, job security for U.S. workers, and potentially national security, as well as the health and safety of consumers. It is important for individuals to understand that importing counterfeit merchandise is against the law, and consumers can face penalties, even if they were unaware the items were inauthentic.

CBP encourages the public to report any suspected instances of illegally imported counterfeit merchandise. The agency provides an “E-Allegation” reporting tool, which allows individuals to anonymously submit information regarding suspected violations of trade laws and regulations concerning the importation of goods into the United States. Furthermore, CBP offers an educational initiative called “The Truth Behind Counterfeits” to help consumers recognize the dangers and consequences associated with purchasing counterfeit goods.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection

---