AAFA applauds USTR on the 2024 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy report

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) commends the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for its continued dedication to the fight against counterfeiting and piracy, as evidenced by the release of the 2024 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy report today.

This report serves as a critical tool in identifying online and physical markets that facilitate substantial trademark counterfeiting and copyright piracy, protecting intellectual property (IP) and the health and safety of consumers worldwide.

AAFA submitted robust member-led comments to USTR in October 2024, emphasizing the need for enhanced enforcement and more targeted action in the battle against illicit trade. We are proud to announce that two of the platforms nominated by AAFA were included in the 2024 Notorious Markets List, highlighting the ongoing challenges that our industry faces in the global fight against counterfeit goods.

"Numerous AAFA-recommendations were taken, and we appreciate the ongoing partnership of the USTR and Ambassador Tai as part of our efforts to eradicate illicit goods and to protect American consumers, American brands, and workers around the world. However, we are very concerned with the omission of U.S.-based platforms from the list. Given the significant role that some domestic platforms play in facilitating the sale of counterfeit goods, we believe it is crucial to ensure that the report reflects all markets — regardless of their geographic location — that contribute to the proliferation of these illegal products," said Steve Lamar, AAFA president and CEO. "Looking ahead, AAFA is eager to see the Trump administration take bold action to combat illicit trade, protect IP, and eradicate counterfeits within the first 100 days of office. We strongly urge the establishment of an Interagency Working Group to fight against illicit trade, which would convene regularly with key stakeholders, ideally on a quarterly basis. This group would work collaboratively across government agencies, Congress, industry leaders, and stakeholders to develop comprehensive solutions to address the growing challenges of counterfeit trafficking and IP infringement."

"We also ask for the Trump Administration to nominate vital Administration positions key to protecting and enforcing intellectual property (IP) rights," said Jennifer Hanks, AAFA senior director of brand protection. "We believe that with continued focus and collaboration, the U.S. government and stakeholders can create an even more robust framework for tackling counterfeiting and piracy, safeguarding both consumers and legitimate businesses. AAFA looks forward to working with USTR and other stakeholders in these efforts and remains committed to advancing the protection of intellectual property rights across the globe."