INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY INFRINGEMENTS IN VIETNAM OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS
In recent years, Vietnam has faced significant challenges in the enforcement of intellectual property (IP) rights. Various government agencies, including the Economic Police, Market Surveillance, Customs, the Inspectorate of the Ministry of Science and Technology, and provincial Departments of Science and Technology, have been actively involved in combating IP infringements. This summary provides a detailed overview of the types of goods most frequently subject to IP infringements, specifically focusing on trademark, patent, and industrial design violations over the past three years.
Trademark Infringements
According to the Market Surveillance Agency, trademark infringements have been the most prevalent type of IP violation in Vietnam. Between 2021 and 2023, over 3,000 cases of counterfeit goods bearing fake trademarks were reported. These infringements primarily affected consumer goods, such as clothing, electronics, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The Economic Police reported that in 2022 alone, there were over 1,200 cases of counterfeit electronics and clothing items seized, with an estimated market value exceeding VND 50 billion.
Patent Infringements
Patent infringements have also been a significant issue, particularly in the manufacturing and technology sectors. The Inspectorate of the Ministry of Science and Technology recorded approximately 200 cases of patent violations between 2021 and 2023. These cases often involved machinery, electrical equipment, and chemical products. A notable example from 2022 involved a major crackdown by the Hanoi Economic Police on a factory producing machinery parts that infringed on patents held by a foreign company, resulting in the seizure of products worth VND 20 billion.
Industrial Design Infringements
Violations of industrial design rights have notably affected the furniture, fashion, and automotive parts industries. The Inspectorate of the Ministry of Science and Technology, along with provincial Departments of Science and Technology, reported over 500 cases of industrial design infringements in the past three years. In 2021, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology uncovered a significant case involving counterfeit automotive parts that copied the design of a well-known international brand, leading to the confiscation of goods worth VND 10 billion.
Other Notable Cases
Customs authorities have also played a crucial role in detecting and preventing IP infringements at the borders. From 2021 to 2023, Customs reported over 1,000 cases of IP-infringing goods being imported into Vietnam, with a focus on counterfeit luxury goods, electronics, and toys. In one major operation in 2022, the Hai Phong Customs Department intercepted a shipment of counterfeit luxury watches valued at VND 30 billion.
Conclusion
The data from various enforcement agencies highlight the persistent and widespread nature of IP infringements in Vietnam. Trademark infringements remain the most common, affecting a wide range of consumer goods. Patent and industrial design violations, while less frequent, pose significant challenges in the manufacturing and technology sectors. Continued efforts by the Economic Police, Market Surveillance, Customs, and the Inspectorate of the Ministry of Science and Technology are essential in mitigating these violations and protecting the rights of IP holders. Strengthening cooperation among these agencies and enhancing public awareness about IP rights are crucial steps toward a more robust IP enforcement regime in Vietnam.
