Counterfeit Cigarette Bust in Laredo Nets $729,000 Seizure
LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Laredo scored a significant victory against counterfeit goods this weekend, seizing a shipment of fake cigarettes valued at over $729,000. The shipment, originating from Vietnam and initially arriving at the Miami Seaport, was flagged by CBP officers in early March and subsequently detained in Laredo.
A thorough examination revealed 17,500 cartons of cigarettes bearing counterfeit markings. Following a legal review, the seizure was finalized on April 25th. Port Director Albert Flores highlighted the dedication of CBP officers and import specialists, emphasizing their vigilance in preventing counterfeit goods from entering U.S. commerce. He praised their expertise in authenticating imported merchandise and swiftly seizing counterfeit items, protecting both the economy and consumers.
The importation of cigarettes falls under the Agriculture Center for Excellence and Expertise (CEE). The Laredo Port of Entry boasts comprehensive CEE representation. CBP's authority extends to detaining, seizing, forfeiting, and destroying imported merchandise with infringing trademarks or copyrights registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or the U.S. Copyright Office and recorded with CBP. Other violations include misclassification, false country-of-origin markings, and safety concerns.
Combating Counterfeit Goods
The trade in counterfeit goods severely threatens America's economic innovation, business competitiveness, and worker livelihoods. It also poses risks to national security and consumer safety. Importing counterfeit goods is illegal, and individuals face potential fines, even unintentionally.
CBP encourages reporting of suspected illegal imports through its E-Allegation tool. The agency also runs an educational initiative, "The Truth Behind Counterfeits," raising consumer awareness about the dangers of purchasing counterfeit products. For updates and more information, follow CBP's social media accounts (links provided in original text).