U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced last week that it has partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to foster enhanced information sharing and public outreach regarding counterfeit goods importation.
A memorandum of understanding on information sharing has been established and was signed by CBP Executive Assistant Commissioner William A. Ferrara and U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Clark.
“This memorandum of understanding establishes a first-of-its-kind framework for public-private collaboration on combating counterfeit and pirated goods,” Ferrara said. “Information sharing between CBP and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will strengthen our ability to defend intellectual property standards that generate American jobs, save lives and enhance our economic prosperity.”
Authorities noted the collaboration would also include conducting joint training and outreach events while improving public awareness of efforts to disrupt counterfeit and pirated goods trading.
“Business is proud to partner with law enforcement to prioritize solutions that eliminate counterfeit and pirated goods,” Clark said. “Fake goods have real consequences, and consumers should have confidence they are getting what they pay for. Criminal networks are profiting from phony goods that expose Americans to potentially dangerous products, including illicit medicine, makeup, electronics, automotive parts, and toys, to name just a few.”
The CBP maintains counterfeit and pirated goods trading threatens the nation’s innovation economy, domestic business competitiveness, and the livelihoods of American workers.