CBP, ICE report record number of intellectual property seizures for FY2016

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in conjunction with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported a record number of seizures of shipments containing goods that violated intellectual property rights throughout FY2016.

The agencies reported a nine percent increase in total seizures compared to the year prior, totaling 31,560. The approximate value of the seized goods were more than $1.38 billion.

As a result of the seizures, agents reported 451 arrests, while obtaining 304 indictments and 272 convictions.

The items seized most frequently were apparel and accessories, with the most popular items being watches and jewelry. The total approximate manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the seized apparel was $635.5 million.

The agencies also reported a significant increase in counterfeit hoverboards, with approximately 108,000 seizures. CBP officials said the knockoff hoverboards posed a safety threat due to substandard lithium ion batteries, which caused a number of reported fires.  

The People’s Republic of China was the primary country of origin for the majority of pirated goods seized, accounting for approximately 45 percent of the total seized goods.

“Products that infringe on U.S. trademarks, copyrights, and patents threaten the health and safety of American consumers, the U.S. economy, and our national interests,” CBP Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske said. “This record-breaking year of IPR seizures highlights the vigilance of CBP and ICE personnel in preventing counterfeit goods from entering our stream of commerce and their dedication to protecting the American people.”