QUESTION
About importing counterfeit goods?
Asked on Oct 23rd, 2014 on Intellectual Property - Florida
More details to this question:
Hello. I recently bought 50 jerseys from China. I paid 20 dollars each jersey. Jerseys are coming in two packages, 20-30 jerseys each package. I am scared because yesterday my cousing told me Aliexpress web page sells counterfeit goods. Is the first time ever i import goods from any country in the whole world. I am worried of being acused of importing counterfeit goods. I really didnt know, and dont know yet if those jerseys are fake or not. What could happen? is customs going to seize my jerseys? Is US government going to make me go to jail? Or US government is going to make me pay a fine? Thanks for your time.
1 ANSWER
Assuming that the goods are counterfeit and have trademarks that are registered with the Customs Service, which is the case for major companies like Reebok, Addidas, etc., then there is a high likelihood that the goods will be seized by the Customs Service when they enter the country and will either be destroyed or donated to a charity based on the wishes of the trademark owner. The Customs Service will not fine you or send or have you arrested. However, should Customs fail to catch the counterfeit goods, if you try to resell the goods, you would be commiting a crime and you could also be subject to legal action by the trademark owner.
Answered on Oct 24th, 2014 at 12:57 PM