Meaning
United States federal regulations dictate the restriction of imported merchandise that bears a counterfeit trademark. Under the provisions of 19 CFR 133.21, customs officers may detain any imported goods that appear to copy a registered trademark without authorization. This action prevents the unauthorized entry of unauthorized products into the domestic supply chain.
Enforcement Threshold
Federal officers evaluate import shipments for trademark infringement before releasing the cargo. Under 19 CFR 133.21, the determination of a counterfeit mark triggers an immediate seizure of the goods.
Import Procedure
Customs procedures require immediate communication with the trademark owner upon suspecting an unauthorized import. The application of 19 CFR 133.21 involves notifying the importer of the detention within five days of the decision. Importers must then provide proof of authorization or a licensing agreement to secure the release of their shipment.
If they fail to do so, the agency proceeds to forfeit the seized items.
Supply Consequence
Logistics operations must account for the strict timeline and document requirements of federal boarders. A failure to clear a trademark check under 19 CFR 133.21 leads to delays or the total loss of cargo. Importers must verify their supply chains to ensure all incoming components comply with intellectual property laws.