CBP IP Enforcement Roundup: Counterfeit Watches, Fake FIFA Jerseys, and Fraudulent Chinese Imports in Focus

This week's enforcement actions highlight CBP's intensified scrutiny of counterfeit luxury goods, World Cup-related merchandise, and undervalued imports — all areas where exporters and importers should ensure strict compliance.

$28 Million Counterfeit Watch Seizure at Louisville

CBP officers at the Port of Louisville intercepted a package containing approximately 200 counterfeit Audemars Piguet watches with an estimated genuine retail value exceeding $28 million. The seizure underscores CBP's continued focus on high-value luxury counterfeits moving through international mail and express courier hubs. Importers and distributors dealing in luxury timepieces should ensure airtight provenance documentation and be prepared for increased inspection of watch shipments. The Fashion Law separately reported this week on broader CBP counterfeit seizure data, noting that luxury's most recognizable brand symbols remain top targets for counterfeiters — and therefore top priorities for enforcement.

World Cup Drives Surge in Counterfeit Merchandise Seizures

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup underway on U.S. soil, CBP has ramped up operations targeting counterfeit event-related goods. Officers at the Rochester Port of Entry seized counterfeit FIFA jerseys, and CBP issued a public statement outlining its broader World Cup security posture, which includes intellectual-property enforcement alongside safety screening. Exporters and retailers handling licensed sports apparel should verify that suppliers hold valid FIFA licensing agreements and maintain proper documentation, as CBP is clearly treating World Cup IP protection as a priority mission during the tournament.

Fraudulent Imports from China: Kitchen Cabinets and Auto Parts Seized

In two separate actions, CBP seized over $120,000 in kitchen cabinets and $170,000 in automotive struts and shocks, all tied to fraudulent import declarations on goods originating from China. While the specific fraud involved — likely undervaluation, misclassification, or false country-of-origin claims — was not detailed in the headlines, the cases serve as a reminder that CBP is actively targeting fraudulent commercial entries beyond traditional counterfeit goods. Importers sourcing from China should audit their customs entries for accuracy in valuation, Harmonized Tariff classification, and trade remedy compliance, particularly in product categories subject to antidumping or countervailing duties.

Stolen Vehicle Exports and Luxury Car Fraud Also on CBP's Radar

CBP reported that 307 stolen vehicles were seized in the Baltimore region during 2025, highlighting the agency's sustained effort to intercept stolen cars before they are exported overseas. Separately, U.S. Customs seized a luxury car valued at $539,000 that was being exported with fraudulent bills of sale. These enforcement actions are relevant for auto exporters and freight forwarders: CBP is scrutinizing outbound vehicle shipments for title fraud, theft indicators, and export-control violations. Businesses in the vehicle export trade should implement robust title verification procedures and maintain clear chain-of-custody records to avoid shipment delays or seizures.

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