As you know, there are many kinds of illegal trade:  products created by what is essentially slavery, dumping, counterfeiting and other copying of intellectual property (like art or prints on textiles), misrepresentation of country of origin, and more.  In this discussion, it is required that you keep to textiles and apparel.

Part 1: Have you had a personal experience with a counterfeit?  You may not have known it was a fake when you bought it.   Tell us about the item, how you learned it was fake and include a photo if you can.  I bought two Coach purses at a garage sale.  The owner was convinced they were both authentic.  Only one was authentic. 

Part 2:  How do we stop it?  Can we stop it?  How do we recognize it?

First, remember that illegal trade happens due to a decision by someone that they are willing to break the law.  The reward of selling is worth the risk to this individual/group.  But it’s consumer demand which drives illegal trade.  It is illegal which means if caught there may be fines, seizure of goods, and imprisonment–which should deter the criminals.  We must be able to recognize what is illegal.  Last, the textbook has many thoughts about prevention.  

     a) Find a post (which is not yours) that interests you.  If someone has already commented, find a different one.

    b) Once you have found your post, comment on the following:

•  Why is this a problem?  Who suffers? Try to think past the immediate; think about the people who make it, buy it and who govern our country.
• How do we (individuals and Customs) recognize that something is fake or illegal?
• How do we stop this?  There are many sources online and in the textbook.  But maybe you have a different idea.  Post it here. 

This can be brief, even written using bullet points.