I have been offered a great deal on some Oakley-copy sunglasses. Is it illegal to sell ‘fake’ or ‘imitation’ products from China and other countries?
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Answer by Lisa Wulfsohn, Malvern 3144 VIC
- Yes. Trading in imitation or pirated goods is illegal particularly if they look the same and are marketed in a similar manner.
- In many cases Customs will seize imitation and pirated goods.
- Importers of those goods could be subject to criminal prosecution or could be sued.
- If you are unsure whether goods you are purchasing over the internet are imitation or pirated goods you can contact the Customs Information and Support Centre via email at cargosupport@customs.gov.au.