Polo Ralph Lauren in Bali: It Might Not Be What You Think
pine patent
September 15, 2024
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Bali, Indonesia, is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, attracting numerous global brands looking to expand their presence. However, with the influx of international brands comes the growing issue of counterfeit goods and trademark infringement. A notable case is the trademark dispute surrounding Polo Ralph Lauren in Indonesia. Ralph Lauren Corporation, a prestigious American fashion brand renowned for high-quality apparel and accessories, has faced challenges in this market.
As of 2024, Ralph Lauren Corporation has stated that it does not operate any official stores or authorized resellers in Indonesia. Despite this, some local retailers are selling products under the name "Polo Ralph Lauren." Specifically, a local company has registered the "Polo Ralph Lauren" trademark and is conducting business under that name, but this company is not affiliated with the U.S.-based Ralph Lauren Corporation.
According to Ralph Lauren Corporation, none of the stores operating in Indonesia, including those located in airports, are authorized to sell genuine Polo Ralph Lauren products. Many Indonesian consumers, however, believe they are purchasing authentic goods, underscoring the need for greater awareness when shopping in the region.
The issue of trademark infringement is not limited to Indonesia. For any company expanding globally, protecting trademarks is essential. Trademarks are protected on a country-by-country basis, so simply registering a trademark in one country does not guarantee protection elsewhere. For instance, had Ralph Lauren not registered its trademark in Indonesia, local businesses might continue to exploit the brand’s name to distribute counterfeit products.
A trademark is much more than just a name; it represents the identity and reputation of a company. Securing trademarks globally is a crucial strategy for enhancing long-term competitiveness. In the event of trademark infringement, businesses must be able to act swiftly, and this requires having registered their trademarks in advance in the relevant markets.
Many travelers wonder if they can bring counterfeit items purchased abroad back to their home country. In South Korea, for instance, the import of counterfeit goods, often referred to as "knock-offs," is generally prohibited under customs law. Article 235 of the Korean Customs Act bans the import and export of goods that infringe on trademarks, copyrights, or patents. If counterfeit items are detected, customs authorities may seize or hold them.
However, there are exceptions. According to Article 243 of the Customs Act Enforcement Decree and regulations related to intellectual property rights, a limited amount of counterfeit goods for personal use may be allowed. Specifically, travelers are permitted to bring in up to one counterfeit item per product type, with a total limit of two counterfeit items.
For example, if a traveler purchases a fake Ralph Lauren T-shirt, they are allowed to bring one shirt into the country. However, if they buy two, customs may seize the additional item. Likewise, if the counterfeit products are sent via international mail or courier, this exception does not apply, and the items may be returned or destroyed by customs.
International trademark registration is not just about legal protection; it is a key factor in enhancing a company’s brand value and long-term competitiveness. A brand that is protected globally builds greater trust among consumers, leading to increased sales and growth. On the other hand, the unchecked distribution of counterfeit goods can erode consumer confidence, making it difficult for customers to differentiate between authentic and fake products, ultimately weakening the brand’s market position.
By proactively registering trademarks and protecting intellectual property rights globally, companies can safeguard their reputation and ensure sustainable success.
