The Intellectual Property (IP) Crime Group was launched in August 2004 by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) bringing together all stakeholders, including government, to drive the creation of a national strategy for tackling IP crime.
Following an independent review of IP and growth in 2010–11 (the Hargreaves Review) this national strategy was published in August 2011, alongside a more general IP focused international strategy.
This has resulted in the appointment of IP Attachés, either working within the relevant UK Trade & Investment office or Foreign & Commonwealth office. Four are so far in post, in China, India, Brazil and South–East Asia. They are there to assist British industry and their remits include enforcement issues in their territories. They can be consulted directly and their contact details are available from the Secretariat.
The IP Crime Group has produced guidance on various topics:
ACG represents more than 3,000 brands affected by this influx of fakes into the UK and delivers an international network of information, advice and contacts on all aspects of IP protection. Working with Government and law enforcement agencies since 1980, ACG is focused on providing an effective and sustained response to counterfeiting.
Membership with the ACG is the best way to work with government and enforcement bodies to protect your brand. Our Roadshows and training days help you reach out to police, trading standards and border force officers and tell them about your genuine products.