Customs Enforcement

An application to Customs for trademark enforcement, also called an Application for Action (AFA), enables trademark owners to request Customs to act against the import of counterfeit products. By submitting this request, Customs can stop goods at the EU’s external borders and notify the trademark owner, who can then, if necessary, initiate legal proceedings.

How does it work?

1. Submit an application

Chiever files an application with Dutch Customs or the European authorities (EUIPO) for EU-wide protection, providing details about the intellectual property (IP) rights, such as the trademark.

2. Provide evidence

The application contains detailed information about the IP rights and the goods being infringed, enabling Customs to better identify counterfeit products.

3. Customs inspection

Customs inspects incoming goods from outside the EU for possible infringements.

4. Detention of goods

If Customs identifies counterfeit products, they are detained.

5. Notification of the trademark owner

Customs informs the trademark owner and asks them to confirm whether infringement has indeed occurred.

6. Take action

If infringement is confirmed, you can have the products destroyed and initiate legal proceedings..