CBP seizes $9.2M counterfeit jewelry shipment in El Paso

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in El Paso seized a shipment of 1,708 counterfeit pieces of designer jewelry originating from China, which would have been worth over $9 million if genuine. The items, including rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces, closely resembled the luxury brand Van Cleef & Arpels' 'Alhambra' line. After consulting with the trademark holder and confirming the products were fake, CBP authorized the seizure. Officials noted that counterfeit goods not only undermine legitimate businesses and cost jobs and tax revenue, but may also support criminal enterprises involved in money laundering, forced labor, and organized crime. Consumers are advised to purchase items directly from authorized retailers and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as counterfeit products are generally poor quality. CBP continues to investigate the incident and encourages the public to report suspected intellectual property violations.