Counterfeit Clubs: More arrests in China

The U.S. Golf Manufacturers Anti-Counterfeiting Working Group recently reported a string of raids and convictions of multiple counterfeiters of golf products in China. The efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to prosecuting counterfeiters and limiting the amount of counterfeit golf products that reach consumers' hands. These and other raids have resulted in the shutting down of more than 20 counterfeiting operations, the seizing of more than 350,000 counterfeit golf products and the arrest of more than 20 counterfeiters, including manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers.

"We continue to make significant progress abroad in petitioning government officials to take enforcement actions against counterfeiters," said Joe Nauman, executive VP for corporate and legal for the Acushnet Company, parent of Titleist and FootJoy. "In the last year, we've seen the length of prison sentences for convicted counterfeiters of golf products increase, which is an important step in the right direction. We are pleased with the efforts of the police, prosecutors and court system in China for helping to bring these criminals to justice."

A recent report from the International Chamber of Commerce predicts the global trade in all types of counterfeit goods will reach $1.7 trillion by 2015. New York Senator Charles Schumer recently called for stronger action from U.S. agencies, citing the struggles of the New Era hat manufacturer with Chinese counterfeits.

But the only logical solution to attack this problem is for consumers to stop purchasing these products. We offered some serious advice awhile back that's worth reviewing, and the U.S. Golf Manufacturers Anti-Counterfeiting Working Group's website provides more guidance on the topic.