Rise in counterfeit seizures 'threat' to Europeans[fr][de] 

Customs services registered over 43,000 seizures of fake goods at EU borders last year compared to 37,000 in 2006, according to the latest Commission figures presented yesterday (19 may). Since 2001 the number of cases has been steadily growing. 

The EU executive attributed this increase to better intelligence regarding suspect shipments and improved cooperation between customs and industry. 

In almost all sectors, customs intervened in more cases than the previous year, with cosmetics products representing the largest increase (+264% compared to 2006), followed by toys (+98%), food (+62%), computer equipment (+62%) and medicines (+51%). 

The Commission said it was particularly worried about the increase of seized articles that present a potential danger to consumers, such as razor blades and moistening creams for personal care. 

"Counterfeiting continues to pose a dangerous threat to our health, safety and our economy," warned EU Taxation and Customs Commissioner László Kovács. 

However, the overall number of articles seized by customs decreased in 2007 (79 million compared to 128 million in 2006), mainly due to fewer seizures of fake cigarettes and CDs/DVDs. But this is also due to increased internet sales and the fact that the counterfeiters are taking fewer risks and sending smaller quantities, the Commission said. 

Nevertheless, counterfeit cigarettes still account for the largest number of articles seized (35% of the total), followed by clothing (22%). 

China remains the main source of counterfeit goods, with almost 60% of all articles seized originating there, but the Commission highlighted the fact that this share has fallen from 80% several years ago. 

"I am happy with the progress made recently by China to strengthen international cooperation with the aim of stopping this problem at its source," said Kovács. 

Enhancing customs cooperation with China is a Commission priority in the fight against counterfeiting. Both sides agreed at their bilateral summit last November that customs cooperation on IPR enforcement must be strengthened. 

The Commission report also revealed that the former Soviet republic of Georgia has emerged as the largest source of fake cosmetics, while Turkey continues to be the biggest supplier of counterfeit foodstuffs. 

Switzerland, home to some of the world's top pharmaceutical firms, was surprisingly headed the table of origins of fake medicines, ahead of India.