OneSource Customs & Logistics

⚠️ Important Update for Importers: Counterfeit Goods Laws Are Changing

The Customs Legislation Amendment (False Trade Marks Infringement Notices) Act 2026 received Royal Assent on 20 May 2026 and introduces significant changes to Australia’s approach to counterfeit imports.

Under the new legislation:
• Importing goods with false trade marks (counterfeit goods) will become a strict liability offence
• ABF will be able to issue infringement notices directly to importers
• Penalties may reach up to 60 penalty units — currently AUD19,800
• ABF will no longer need to prove intent or knowledge, only that the goods carried false trade marks

Previously, trade mark owners often had to pursue costly civil court action themselves, with litigation reportedly costing between $200k–$500k.

The new framework is designed to:
✔ Strengthen enforcement
✔ Reduce the profitability of counterfeit importing
✔ Create a stronger deterrent across supply chains

The legislation will commence either:
1️⃣ On a future Proclamation date determined by Government once ABF is ready to enforce, or
2️⃣ Automatically from 21 November 2026 if no proclamation occurs earlier.

Importers, wholesalers, and procurement teams should ensure:
• Suppliers are legitimate
• Brand authorisations are verified
• Due diligence processes are documented
• Product authenticity checks form part of procurement and compliance processes

This is another reminder that supply chain compliance now extends well beyond customs declarations alone.

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🌍 New EU–Mexico Trade Deal Expected to Open New Markets & Strengthen Supply Chains

A newly signed trade agreement between the European Union and Mexico is being welcomed by shippers, freight forwarders, and logistics providers as a major step toward expanding global trade opportunities and reducing supply chain risk.

The modernised agreement:
✅ Provides duty-free access for almost all goods
✅ Expands opportunities across services, digital trade, procurement, and agriculture
✅ Aims to reduce administrative burdens and border complexity
✅ Supports diversification away from heavy reliance on the US and China

Trade between the EU and Mexico has already grown more than 75% over the past decade, with over 45,000 EU businesses expected to benefit from the updated agreement.

Industry groups including the European Shippers’ Council (ESC) and CLECAT have highlighted the importance of:
📦 Smoother customs procedures
📦 More predictable trading conditions
📦 Improved regulatory cooperation
📦 Greater resilience within international supply chains

From a logistics and supply chain perspective, agreements like this are increasingly about more than tariffs — they are about market access, resilience, sourcing diversification, and long-term geopolitical strategy.

As global trade lanes continue to shift, businesses that understand changing trade agreements and supply chain opportunities will be better positioned to adapt and grow.

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