CBP in Miami Seizes Sunglasses for Infringing Trademarks
October 30, 2009On October 23, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Miami seaport seized 97 parcels containing sunglasses and reading glasses with infringing trademarks of brands such as Christian Dior, XOXO, Chanel, D&G, and Burberry.
The shipments had a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of nearly $7.7 million and a domestic value of approximately $388,000.
CBP officers discovered the merchandise while conducting a trade examination at the Miami seaport. Samples were turned over to CBP import specialists for intellectual property rights (IPR) review. The shipment was seized after it was determined to infringe on trademarks which were recorded with CBP.
“The people who traffic in this type of crime not only steal from legitimate companies, but they also dupe the unknowing consumer into buying items that are substandard. In some cases a counterfeit item that does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications can threaten the health or safety of a consumer. CBP Miami is committed to stopping trade in pirated and counterfeit goods,” said Harold Woodward, director of field operations.
In fiscal year 2008, the domestic value of counterfeit sunglasses/parts seized nationwide was $7.9 million, more than double the 2007 seizures of $3.9 million.
