Asiapacific Nations Strengthen IP Border Enforcement

Published: 01/26/2026
Intellectual Property Border Protection Customs Cooperation
The WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop on Intellectual Property Border Enforcement was successfully held in Shanghai, bringing together customs representatives and experts from 26 countries. The workshop focused on the harms of intellectual property infringement, the application of the TRIPS Agreement, the use of the IPM system, the identification of genuine and counterfeit goods, and risk assessment. Through experience sharing and practical exercises, the event enhanced the intellectual property protection capabilities of customs officers, promoted international cooperation, and fostered innovation and prosperity.
Asiapacific Nations Strengthen IP Border Enforcement

As massive cargo ships dock at ports across the region, behind these routine operations lies a growing challenge: the threat of intellectual property infringement. Counterfeit goods not only damage brand reputations but also endanger consumer safety and stifle innovation. Strengthening border defenses against these violations has become a critical mission for customs authorities worldwide.

Regional Collaboration for IP Protection

From December 2-6, 2013, the World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building, in partnership with China Customs, successfully hosted the "WCO Asia Pacific Regional Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Border Protection" at the Shanghai Customs College. Supported by the Customs Cooperation Fund of Japan, the event brought together 26 customs representatives from across the region, along with IPR experts from WCO, Japan, and Hong Kong, China.

Key Focus Areas of the Workshop

The intensive program addressed cutting-edge issues in border IP protection through multiple formats including presentations, case studies, and practical exercises:

  • Understanding IPR violations: The workshop analyzed the economic, social, and consumer impacts of counterfeit goods, reinforcing customs officers' commitment to combating this threat.
  • TRIPS Agreement implementation: Experts examined how to effectively apply the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights framework to enhance cross-border enforcement.
  • IPM System utilization: Participants learned about WCO's Interface Public Members system, which facilitates information sharing between rights holders and customs authorities.
  • Product authentication techniques: Representatives from 16 brands provided hands-on training in distinguishing genuine products from counterfeits.
  • Risk assessment exercises: Practical simulations improved officers' skills in identifying suspicious shipments and conducting effective inspections.
"This workshop wasn't just about knowledge sharing—it created new opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can build an impenetrable defense for intellectual property protection," remarked one participating official.

Building a Cooperative Framework

Delegates actively exchanged best practices and effective strategies for combating counterfeit goods. This open dialogue fostered mutual learning and laid the foundation for stronger regional cooperation in IP protection.

Participants reported significant professional development, pledging to share their new expertise with colleagues to strengthen their organizations' overall IP enforcement capabilities.

The Path Forward

The workshop's success marks a milestone in regional IP protection efforts, demonstrating the power of collaborative action against counterfeit trade. As customs authorities continue to enhance their technical and operational capacities, such initiatives will be crucial for maintaining fair trade practices, safeguarding innovation, and protecting consumers across the Asia-Pacific region.

Related Topics