This study presents an updated quantitative analysis of the value, scope and magnitude of world trade in counterfeit and pirated products.
The report uses a tailored, statistical methodology, originally developed for the OECD (2008) study, and elaborated for the OECD – EUIPO (2016) report, which was based on data for 2011 - 2013.
Counterfeiting and piracy pose a major threat to innovation and economic growth, at both EU and global level. The rise in the share of counterfeit and pirated goods in world trade is deeply concerning, and clearly calls for coordinated action, at all levels, to be fully tackled.
Effects and magnitude of the phenomenon:
Between 2013 and 2016, the share of trade in counterfeit and pirated goods in global trade grew very significantly. Moreover, this growth was reported during a period of a relative slowdown in overall world trade.
Consequently, the intensity of counterfeiting and piracy is on the rise, with significant potential risk for intellectual property (IP) in the knowledge-based, open and globalised economy.
Main findings
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In 2016, the volume of international trade in counterfeited and pirated products could amount to as much as USD 509 billion (EUR 460 billion). This represents up to 3.3% of world trade.
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The previous OECD EUIPO study, which relied on the same methodology, estimated that up to 2.5% of world trade was in counterfeit and pirated goods in 2013, equivalent to up to USD 461 billion (EUR 338 billion).
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In 2016, imports of counterfeit and pirated products into the EU amounted to as much as EUR 121 billion (USD 134 billion), which
represents up to 6.8% of EU imports, against 5% of EU imports in 2013. -
Companies and businesses most affected by counterfeiting and piracy continue to be primarily based in OECD countries such as the United States, France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Japan, Korea and the United Kingdom.
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However, a growing number of companies registered in high income non-member economies, such as Singapore and Hong Kong
are becoming targets. -
The report uses data from nearly half a million customs seizures from international enforcement agencies including the World Customs Organization, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union and the United States Department of Homeland Security. The datasets are composed of information collected and processed by customs officers.
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| Full report | Show | ||
| Executive summary | Show | ||
| Press release | Show | ||
| Infographics | Show | ||