Dh17 million worth of counterfeit goods seized by Dubai Customs last year

DUBAI// Almost Dh17 million worth of counterfeit goods were seized by Dubai Customs in 2015, reported the government news agency Wam.

Last year saw inspectors carry out 135 seizures of fake items including electronics, watches, glasses, clothing, fabrics, cosmetics, medicines and medical equipment, tires, auto spare parts, telephones and computers worth Dh16.8 million.

“Intellectual property rights protection gains double importance in the evolution course of our national economy at the current stage, particularly that the UAE has an orientation to focus on unleashing the spirit of creativity and innovation in government work and in society at large,” said Saeed Ahmed Al Tayer, executive director of Policies and Legislation Division at Dubai Customs.

He said the protection of intellectual property rights was of paramount importance to Dubai Customs and as such extensive training was being done to enable staff to identify fake goods.

Dubai Customs also works closely with other local, federal and GCC government agencies to raise awareness of the issue within the community, he said.

Last year saw 31 outreach events and with 10,181 people taking part.

In 2015 Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, deputy chairman of Police and General Security in Dubai and honorary chairman of Emirates Intellectual Property Association was honoured for his efforts in helping to combat counterfeits.

Part of this awareness strategy has included visiting schools and universities to educate students on intellectual property rights.

The 2014-2015 academic year saw 110 schools and 13 universities take part.