Osaka Customs Seizes Counterfeit Labels Infringing "BONDRO" Trademark, Accounting for Over 70% of Seizures

WISECODE Take

Osaka Customs recently seized a large number of counterfeit labels infringing the "BONDRO" trademark, with these fake stickers accounting for over 70% of related seizures. Many business owners mistakenly believe that only complete counterfeit products are intercepted at customs; in fact, semi-finished goods or simple brand labels have long been key targets for border control and rights holders. This enforcement action highlights a "preemptive strike" military strategy in the Japanese market, where intercepting counterfeit labels at the border dismantles the competitor's supply chain at a minimal cost. For exporters, ensuring trademark clearance for all packaging and labels before shipping to Japan is critical to avoiding seizure. To defend against counterfeits, businesses should conduct thorough trademark searches in Japan and proactively file import suspension applications with Japan Customs.