CBP Seizes $4M in Fake Apple, JBL items

HOUSTON – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Houston seaport intercepted over 70,000 various counterfeit Apple and JBL electronics with a combined Manufactured Suggested Retail Price over $4M.

Nearly 500 counterfeit Apple Watch like this one was seized in Houston. The items were shipped from China and were seized because of intellectual property rights violations.

“Transnational criminal organizations are relentless in their effort to fund their illegal activities by manufacturing poor imitations of authentic designer brands,” said Houston CBP Port Director Roderick Hudson. “Many consumers are unaware that these types of illegal activities can involve forced labor and human trafficking. This seizure illustrates our commitment to protecting our nation’s economy and consumers from those intent on defrauding businesses and consumers alike.”

Counterfeit items valued at over $4M were seized including JBL speakers.

When the shipment arrived to Houston, CBP officers examined it and discovered various Apple products including Air Pod Pros, Apple Watches, Lightning Cables, protective cases and JBL speakers. Images of the items were sent to the trademark holders who confirmed the items were counterfeit. While the domestic value of these items is $1,624,479.67, had these items been genuine, the MSRP would have reached $4,061,224.66.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-seizes-4m-fake-apple-jbl-items