The confiscated items, ranging from luxury handbags and electronics to automotive parts, underscore the scale of the counterfeit market. Notably, over 2.5 million fake auto spare parts, valued at nearly AED 7.46 million, were seized during targeted raids in Sharjah, the Northern Emirates, and Al Ain. These counterfeit parts, including oil and air filters, pose significant risks to vehicle safety and performance.
In response to the environmental challenges posed by the disposal of counterfeit goods, Dubai Customs has adopted a sustainable approach. Collaborating with the Landmark Group, a new textile recycling facility in Dubai South has been established to process seized counterfeit items. This facility employs advanced technologies to sort and recycle wearable waste, aligning with the UAE's commitment to a circular economy.
Technological advancements have been central to Dubai Customs' strategy. The implementation of the Smart Risk Engine System allows for efficient risk assessment and tracking of prohibited goods before they reach customs checkpoints. Additionally, six advanced container scanners operating in Jebel Ali can process up to 900 containers per hour, enhancing the detection of counterfeit items.
Training and capacity building remain pivotal. Dubai Customs has organized multiple workshops to equip inspectors with the skills necessary to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit goods. These efforts are complemented by international collaborations, including meetings with French and US diplomatic missions, to strengthen intellectual property rights enforcement.
The Ministry of Economy has also been proactive, conducting over 4,444 inspection tours in local markets since the beginning of 2023, resulting in 620 recorded violations related to commercial fraud and trademark counterfeiting. These initiatives aim to ensure consumer rights and maintain a stable market environment.
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