AAFA Urges Congress & Trump Govt To Take Strong Action Against Counterfeit Goods
As part of National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has urged Congress and the Trump Administration to take immediate, impactful steps to combat the growing counterfeit goods crisis.
In a letter submitted to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), AAFA advocated for updating the Notorious Markets List (NML) to again include U.S.-headquartered third-party marketplaces. The 2019 inclusion of Amazon’s foreign domains marked a turning point, but similar nominations have not been included since 2020, despite ongoing advocacy.
AAFA also submitted comments last month to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on the OECD’s Draft Voluntary Guidelines aimed at tackling counterfeit goods on online platforms. In addition, AAFA co-led a cross-industry letter to Congress on July 14, urging support for the Office of the Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator (IPEC), including securing funding and an appointment by year-end.
“Counterfeit goods threaten U.S. jobs, consumer safety and brand integrity,” said Steve Lamar, AAFA President and CEO. “We must update the NML process, include domestic platforms, and level the playing field for American businesses.”
AAFA thanked bipartisan sponsors of the Senate Resolution recognizing July as National Anti-Counterfeiting Month, Senator Chuck Grassley and co-sponsors Chris Coons, Thom Tillis, and Mazie Hirono for highlighting the importance of trademarks in consumer protection and the U.S. economy.
AAFA continues to push for stronger policies and education to fight counterfeits, especially as the holiday season approaches.
