The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has commended the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for releasing the 2024 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy. This annual report identifies online and physical markets that facilitate significant trademark counterfeiting and copyright piracy, supporting global efforts to protect intellectual property (IP) and consumer safety.

In October 2024, AAFA submitted extensive member-led comments to USTR, advocating for enhanced enforcement against illicit trade. Notably, two platforms nominated by AAFA were included in the 2024 Notorious Markets List, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the industry.

“We appreciate USTR’s commitment to combating counterfeiting and protecting American consumers, brands, and workers,” said Steve Lamar, AAFA president and CEO. However, he expressed concern over the exclusion of US-based platforms from the report, urging a comprehensive approach to address all markets contributing to counterfeit sales.

AAFA called on the administration to establish an Interagency Working Group to fight illicit trade and to prioritize IP enforcement in key administrative roles. Jennifer Hanks, AAFA’s senior director of brand protection, emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and stakeholders to strengthen efforts against counterfeit trafficking and IP infringement.

AAFA remains committed to advancing robust protections for intellectual property and legitimate businesses worldwide.