The growing trade amongst global economies has created new opportunities not only for trade, but also for innovation and economic growth. However, while expanding supply chains have improved efficiency, they have also introduced significant challenges, particularly as concerns the protection of intellectual property and the enforcement of trade regulations. Illicit trade of counterfeit goods threatens businesses, public safety, and economic stability, undermining the rule of law. To address these issues, a comprehensive strategy is required, one that focuses on strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhances cross-border co-operation, and leverages technology to secure global supply chains. The increase in e-commerce and digital trade further complicates enforcement efforts, as counterfeiters are quick to adapt to changing trade patterns. Co-ordinated international efforts are therefore vital to preserving market integrity and consumer confidence.
Monitoring and understanding this evolving threat are crucial to developing effective governance responses. This report, based on a methodology originally developed for a 2008 OECD study, provides an updated analysis using the most recent (2021) global customs seizure data. It offers a comprehensive overview of the key characteristics of trade in counterfeit goods and estimates its scale and magnitude, including a deep dive into how this affects the European Union. This report also provides insights into emerging trends, drawing from discussions with IP experts and industry representatives.
The findings are concerning. In 2021, counterfeit and pirated goods accounted for up to 2.3% of global trade. Within the European Union, fake goods represented up to 4.7% of total imports, underscoring the persistent risk illicit trade poses to globalised economies.
This report was prepared under the auspices of the OECD Working Party on Countering Illicit Trade in collaboration with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) in the context of the 2017 OECD-EUIPO Memorandum of Understanding.