60,000 Mermaid Dolls Seized At Minnesota-Canada Border

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, MN — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the International Falls Port of Entry targeted a rail container and found 60,180 mermaid and fashion dolls they say violate intellectual property rights.

Authorities said the dolls had copyright protected markings. As a result, the dolls were seized.

The counterfeit merchandise has an estimated retail price of more than $600,000, according to investigators.

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“CBP is focused on identifying and intercepting counterfeit merchandise and products. The enforcement of trade laws at U.S. ports of entry remains a high priority for us,” said Anthony Jackson, International Falls Port Director.

“Counterfeiting adversely affects the ability of lawful copyright holders to profit from their original ideas. Counterfeiting also harms consumers because manufacturers of forged products have little motivation to use safe, high-quality materials in their products.”

Stopping the flow of illicit goods is a priority trade issue for CBP. The importation of counterfeit merchandise can damage the U.S. economy and threaten the health and safety of the American people.

With the growth of foreign trade, unscrupulous companies have profited billions of dollars from the sale of counterfeit and pirated goods, according to the agency.

Image via U.S Customs and Border Protection