Dubai Customs took piracy prevention and sustainable practices to a new level earlier this month when they recycled 1,906 counterfeit items including sports shoes, mobile headphones, and computers, according to a release from July 9th. This success represents one of many from Dubai Customs in addressing and putting a stop to the process of counterfeit goods in the region.

“The IPR Department works closely with different partners to curb counterfeiting in line with TRIPS agreement,” said Yousef Ozair Mubarak, Director of IPR Department. “The damage caused by counterfeit goods to the economy, environment, and even perhaps our overall quality of life should be something of a given for most people.”

“Perhaps Intellectual Property rights-holders are those most likely to feel the true pinch of this rogue industry, but when one considers the big picture it becomes clear that everyone is liable to be affected by counterfeiting and piracy,” he added.

Thanks to collaborative efforts between Color Code recycling company, CEO of Brand Owners’ Protection Group Malik Hanouf, and representatives from Air Cargo Centers Management, IPR Dispute Section, and External Relations Section, the items were successfully removed from further processing and used to support sustainable practices for the IPR Department at Dubai Customs.

“We take care of all information that helps us thwart all types of smuggling to protect our society from the hazards of illegitimate goods,” stated Shuaib Al Suwaidi, Director of Customs Intelligence Department. “Counterfeit goods are not welcome in Dubai and we work together with different partners to ensure they don’t enter the emirate.”

Photos provided by Dubai Customs