AUSTIN – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport seized counterfeit children’s pajama sets, Jan. 21, with an estimated manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $138,618.
CBP officers intercepted a shipment containing 91 counterfeit pajama sets including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Fendi and Versace that originated in the Philippines and were destined for Leander, Texas.
“A vast majority of consumers are unaware that counterfeiting can involve forced labor, human trafficking, as well as fund other criminal activities,” said Austin CBP Port Director Richard Mendez. “Additionally, counterfeit products are likely manufactured with dangerous materials and lack quality standards. This seizure reflects our commitment to protect our nation’s economy and its consumers from transnational criminals who are intent on defrauding businesses and consumers alike.”
When the shipment arrived at the Austin port of entry, it was manifested as clothes; but instead CBP officers discovered various designer marked counterfeit pajama sets. CBP officers took images of the items for the trademark holders who immediately advised that the items were substandard and in violation of intellectual property rights.
With this information, CBP officers seized the items.
shipment valued at over $138,000.
According to Mendez, counterfeit commodities can multiply illegal profits when these types of illegitimate items are made available on websites, sold in flea markets or unauthorized outlets. He added that consumers are deceived into believing that they are buying an original product at a significant discount. CBP officers work tirelessly to intercept and disrupt criminal activity.
In fiscal year 2020, CBP processed $2.4 trillion in imports, the end of the fiscal year 2019, CBP recorded more than 23,700 seizures of counterfeit goods, with an estimated value of $1.2 billion.
CBP has established an educational initiative to raise consumer awareness about the consequences and dangers associated with purchasing counterfeit and pirated goods online or in stores. To report suspected fraud or illegal trade activity, please contact CBP through the e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
Intellectual property rights violations can also be reported to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center or by telephone at 1-866-IPR-2060.