INTERNATIONAL FALLS — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations team seized 1,363 counterfeit phone cases and 2,956 counterfeit home chargers valued at more than $2,645,000.
According to CBP, officers targeted a rail container at the port of entry on its way to Minnesota. CBP officers inspected the rail container and discovered phone accessories bearing counterfeit Chanel No. 5 marks.
“CBP is focused on identifying and intercepting counterfeit merchandise and products. The enforcement of trade laws at U.S. ports of entry remains a high priority for us,” said Christopher Misson, Pembina Area Port Director in a media release.
CBP said they stand firm on stopping the flow of illicit goods at board crossing. "Unscrupulous companies have profited billions of dollars from the sale of counterfeit and pirated goods," the release said.
CBP also acknowledged their enforcement strategy is multi-layered and includes seizing illegal merchandise at the borders, pushing the border “outward” through audits of suspect importers, cooperating with international trading partners, and collaborating with industry and governmental agencies to enhance these efforts.
