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The National Customs Service successfully detected and seized a significant shipment of counterfeit products at the Port of Iquique, thanks to risk analysis and intelligence procedures applied to foreign trade data.
The operation was carried out by the teams of the Iquique Regional Customs after identifying a container that required thorough inspection. Using non-intrusive scanning technology, undeclared goods were detected. The subsequent opening of the container revealed the true extent of the contraband.
Inspectors found a total of 9,972 pairs of sneakers imitating models from brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Giuseppi Zanotti, New Balance, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Lacoste, Versace, Moschino, Nike, Coach, and OC. Additionally, 30 Louis Vuitton and Burberry handbags and 60 Gucci caps were seized.
The importer had declared the shipment only as "unbranded sports footwear," concealing the true nature of the cargo. The contraband, originating from Asia and destined for an importer in the Iquique Free Trade Zone, was valued at over USD 296,000. All products were seized.
The Undersecretary of Finance, Juan Pablo Rodríguez, emphasized the importance of maintaining state oversight capabilities: "it is fundamental to continue strengthening the control and inspection capabilities of state agencies, so that successful procedures like this continue to yield concrete results in the fight against organized crime and illicit trafficking".
Rodríguez also clarified that budgetary adjustments will not affect the work of border control institutions: "Agencies that perform essential functions in combating crime and organized crime will have the necessary resources to carry out their work. As a Government, we are working to strengthen these capabilities and continue supporting the work they do daily for the benefit of the country's security".
For her part, the National Director of Customs, Alejandra Arriaza, explained the detection process: "this procedure is the result of the permanent risk analysis and intelligence work carried out by the National Customs Service at various control points across the country. Based on these processes, an operation requiring a more exhaustive review was identified, and through the use of non-intrusive technology, the container was scanned, detecting undeclared goods and a significant quantity of products that violated intellectual and industrial property rights".
Arriaza added that "this type of finding demonstrates the capacity of our inspection teams to identify irregular operations and protect both consumers and legitimate trade. As the National Customs Service, we play a fundamental role in the security and development of the country, safeguarding borders, combating illicit trade, and contributing to economic activities being carried out under fair rules and in compliance with current regulations".
Source: portalportuario
