Global Trade in Fake Goods Worth Nearly Half a Trillion Dollars a Year – OECD & EUIPO

OECD report on global counterfeiting

A just-released report from the OECD and the EU’s Intellectual Property Office concludes that imports of counterfeit and pirated goods are worth nearly half a trillion dollars a year, or around 2.5% of global imports. U.S., Italian and French brands are the hardest hit, with much of the proceeds going to organized crime.

Trade in Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Mapping the Economic Impact puts the value of imported fake goods worldwide at US$461 billion in 2013, compared with total imports in world trade of US$17.9 trillion. Up to 5% of goods imported into developed countries are fakes. Although these products can originate from virtually all economies in all contents, most come from middle income or emerging countries, with China the top producer.

The report analyzes nearly half a million customs seizures around the world over 2011-13 to produce the most rigorous estimate to date of the scale of counterfeit trade. The estimated 2.5% of global imports comprising counterfeit and pirated goods represents a significant leap from earlier figures. A 2008 OECD study estimated fake goods accounted for up to 1.9% of global imports, although the current report acknowledges that the 2008 study used more limited data and methodology.

“The findings of this new report contradict the image that counterfeiters only hurt big companies and luxury goods manufacturers,” says OECD Deputy Secretary-General Doug Frantz. “They take advantage of our trust in trademarks and brand names to undermine economies and endanger lives.”

The report covers all physical counterfeit goods, which infringe trademarks, design rights or patents, and tangible pirated products, which breach copyright. It does not cover online piracy, which is a further drain on the formal economy. More investigations are needed to address the challenge, says the report, so that countries can individually and cooperatively design policy and enforcement solutions. Information on the magnitude, scope and trends of counterfeit and pirated trade is critical in to understanding the nature of the challenges. However, the report says, the current results do not include domestically produced and consumed counterfeit and pirated products.

Read the report online: http://www.oecd.org/governance/trade-in-counterfeit-and-pirated-goods-9789264252653-en.htm

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    July 24, 2025 BC Hydro is supporting the construction of new housing developments in growing communities by advancing changes to streamline upgrades and reducing the cost of new customer connections to BC Hydro’s electricity grid. “As communities across B.C. grow, so does the need for essential housing. We are committed to ensuring we’re ready to… Read More…

  • Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    July 22, 2025 Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) manufacturer, Mitrex proudly announces that its transformative SunRise Residential project in Edmonton, Alberta, has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural globally. This landmark project showcases Mitrex’s innovative BIPV solar panels, blending cutting-edge solar technology with vibrant cultural artistry to redefine sustainable architecture. Sustainable Architecture with BIPV Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the Mitrex eFacade PRO plus… Read More…

  • Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    July 24, 2025 Nexans has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey by developing a prototype cable made entirely from recycled materials — a first in the company’s history. This innovation combines technical performance, industrial feasibility, and a drastically reduced environmental footprint, marking a decisive step forward in circular economy. A cross-continental success story… Read More…

  • EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    July 24, 2025 Since 1974, MGM Transformers has produced tough and trusted transformers designed to get the job done right. As a leading manufacturer, the company employs a highly experienced and dedicated engineering team that excels in custom designs. MGM Transformers is committed to excellent quality and service, offering industry-leading lead times and exceptional customer service. MGM Transformers specializes… Read More…