Because of its border control responsibilities, Customs is uniquely positioned to prevent illegal importations. In fiscal year 2011 there were 24,792 intellectual property rights seizures with a value of $178.9 million.
Counterfeit and pirated goods threaten America’s innovation and economy, the competitiveness of our businesses, the livelihoods of U.S. workers, and, in some cases, the health and safety of consumers. In fact, it is estimated that counterfeit and pirated goods cost U.S. companies upwards of $200 billion a year. In the face of these statistics, companies, particularly smaller companies, should be aware that there are additional avenues available for protecting their intellectual property rights at the U.S. border.
