Counterfeiting has become a huge, highly-organized, global business.
Over a decade ago, counterfeit goods were limited in volume and variety – but today, they have escalated to unprecedented levels. Counterfeit and pirated products extend across many categories.
Types of Commodities Seized in 2012
Did You Know?
- From 2005 to 2012, the RCMP has seen an upward trend in the number of documented cases involving counterfeit and pirated goods.
- There is a noticeable yearly increase in the number of occurrences involving harmful counterfeit products from 11.5% in 2005 to 30.4% in 2012.
- In 2012, the RCMP reported a total of 726 occurrences, a slight decrease from the previous year due to other priority cases drawing upon federal resources.
- Commodity types most frequently documented by the RCMP in 2012 were apparel and footwear, accounting for 45% of all goods seized, followed by audio-visual and copyrighted works at 20%.
- In 2012, over 200 cases of harmful counterfeit products were investigated, including commodities such as toys, pharmaceuticals, perfume, integrated circuits, makeup, headphones, wheel bearings, cellular phones, and batteries.
For more statistical data, visit http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/fep-pelf/ipr-dpi/report-rapport-2012-eng.htm