This week, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) released its annual global intellectual property report, known as the Special 301 Review. FDRA President & CEO Matt Priest testified on behalf of the industry to provide input to USTR on global footwear IP challenges. This key report breaks down the state of IP protection by country and serves as an important tool for U.S. engagement with our trading partners on specific IP issues.
During this year's Special 301 hearing, FDRA testified on shortfalls in foreign markets, the surge of counterfeit footwear sold on e-commerce platforms, and the need to grant CBP authority to seize goods based on design patent infringement. FDRA also discussed the IP provisions of the recent U.S-China trade agreement.