AAFA Backs New Bill Targeting Counterfeit Goods at US Borders

Why It Matters

By tightening information flow between CBP and brands, the bill could dramatically reduce the volume of unsafe counterfeit products entering U.S. markets, safeguarding consumer trust and preserving revenue for legitimate manufacturers.

Key Takeaways

• H.R. 4930 would let CBP share packaging details with brands
• Expanded “person” definition widens stakeholder access to customs data
• Bill mirrors Senate S. 2677, aiming for bipartisan passage
• AAFA mobilized 20 firms to urge Commerce Dept. action
• Faster info sharing could curb counterfeit influx into U.S. homes

Pulse Analysis

Counterfeit goods have become a pervasive threat to U.S. consumers and legitimate businesses, costing the economy billions annually and exposing shoppers to unsafe products. Customs and Border Protection, the frontline agency at ports of entry, already inspects shipments for intellectual‑property violations, but its ability to relay granular data to rights‑holders has been limited. The new House proposal, H.R. 4930, seeks to close that gap by authorizing CBP to transmit not only product descriptions but also packaging and packing‑material details, giving brands a clearer picture of suspicious consignments before they disperse into the market.

The bill’s most notable innovation is the broadened definition of who qualifies as a “person” eligible for CBP intelligence. Previously confined to a narrow set of trademark owners, the amendment opens the channel to a wider coalition of manufacturers, distributors, and online marketplace operators. This aligns with Senate bill S. 2677, creating a unified legislative front that could accelerate bipartisan support. AAFA’s coordinated campaign—featuring a joint industry letter, outreach to key congressional sponsors, and a strategic push on World IP Day—demonstrates the sector’s urgency to secure legislative backing and underscores the political momentum behind stronger border enforcement.

If enacted, the legislation promises tangible benefits for both brands and consumers. Faster, more detailed data sharing enables companies to flag counterfeit shipments in real time, reducing the likelihood of dangerous products reaching shelves or e‑commerce platforms. For retailers, this translates into lower liability risk and fewer costly recalls. Consumers gain heightened protection against substandard goods, while the broader economy stands to retain revenue that would otherwise be siphoned off by illicit trade. As global supply chains grow more complex, H.R. 4930 could become a cornerstone of America’s strategy to safeguard intellectual property and public safety at the nation’s borders.