Counterfeit Goods → Canada

Counterfeit Goods import prohibited

Details

Importing counterfeit goods violates intellectual property laws in every country. Customs agencies in the US, EU, UK, Japan, Australia, and elsewhere actively seize counterfeit goods, including personal-use quantities. In some jurisdictions, includin. Enforcement in Canada carries fines from CAD 1,000 to CAD 500,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years in aggravated cases under Customs Act s.159, s.160; Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Quantity limit

Any quantity prohibited under the Trade-marks Act; CBSA seizes counterfeit goods — personal-use exception does not apply

Documentation required

• No import permits available; CBSA B15 seizure form issued

Surrender at customs

CBSA accepts voluntary abandonment of counterfeit goods at port of entry. Declare at primary inspection. Form E-15 (Customs Release) not required. Item destroyed. Avoids civil penalty under Trade-marks Act section 53.

Leaving with this item

Counterfeit goods are unlawful to export from Canada — trademark and customs law applies on departure as well as arrival, and carriage risks seizure and fines.

Practical advice

Do not carry counterfeit branded goods into Canada. CBSA seizes counterfeits at all ports of entry under IPR enforcement rules; commercial-quantity carriage attracts criminal-trafficking charges in addition to civil forfeiture.

Customs authority

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) · https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca