Counterfeit goods seized by Genoa Customs Agency

A press conference was held at Palazzo San Giorgio, Genoa, Tuesday, July 11th, 2006, about Louis Vuitton's destruction and disposal of counterfeit goods.

The meeting presented the destruction of over sixty tons of counterfeit goods with the Louis Vuitton logos which were seized as part of Genoa's fight against counterfeiting in collaboration with the Financial Police. From 2003 to date, it has led to the confiscation of fake goods and numerous importers have been reported to the judicial authorities.

Genoa's customs have confiscated over 200 tons of counterfeit bags and clothing accessories alone, which occupied and continue to occupy space that is essential to port activities in addition to adding considerable storage costs.

To overcome the situation, Genoa's Public Prosecutor has set up a Financial Police force which will identify the sequestered containers and proceed with the destruction of the counterfeit goods. In the future, it will take appropriate measures to speed up the procedures for crimes that involve the seizure of fake products.

A contribution by brand owners to the disposal of illegal goods is also important. In this case, Louis Vuitton has footed the bill for the destruction of the sequestered products bearing its prestigious logo.

On April 20th, 2004, ANFAO also paid for the destruction and disposal of around 5000 pairs of counterfeit glasses, the majority of which were produced by ANFAO members and had a value of about one million euros.

The destruction operation by Louis Vuitton began on July 11th, 2006.