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Birkenstock Targets Counterfeiters in India with Court-Backed Factory Raids

German footwear giant Birkenstock has launched a major legal offensive in India to combat the growing trade in counterfeit sandals. Following an internal investigation that uncovered fake Birkenstock products being manufactured in and around Agra, the company filed an infringement lawsuit in the Delhi High Court in May. The court responded swiftly. On May 26, Judge Saurabh Banerjee authorized ten court-appointed commissioners to conduct surprise inspections of suspected factories in Agra and New Delhi. These visits, now completed, resulted in the seizure and sealing of allegedly fake products bearing Birkenstock branding. The judge noted that the counterfeit sandals were nearly indistinguishable from genuine ones, posing a serious risk of deceiving consumers. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for October 6. Birkenstock’s crackdown comes amid a broader wave of intellectual property enforcement in India’s footwear industry, with brands like Crocs and Prada also pursuing legal act...

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Canada’s New “Fentanyl Czar”: A Cross-Border Liaison in the Fight Against Opioids


Amid escalating U.S. pressure and looming tariff threats, Canada has unveiled a bold element of its $1.3‐billion border security plan: the appointment of a “fentanyl czar.” Though the title may evoke images of sweeping authority, this newly created position is intended to serve as a dedicated liaison between Canadian and U.S. authorities, focusing on curbing the flow of illegally trafficked fentanyl across the border .

Fentanyl—a potent synthetic opioid used medically for severe pain—has also emerged as a central figure in North America’s opioid crisis, with criminal networks ramping up its illicit production and distribution. In this context, the “czar” is tasked with coordinating efforts between law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border. The goal is to share intelligence, streamline enforcement operations, and develop strategies that address not only the drug’s illegal trade but also the broader implications for public health and safety.

Critics note that while less than one percent of the fentanyl seized in the United States originates from Canada, the creation of this role is as much a political signal as it is a practical step toward enhanced border security . By appointing a high-profile coordinator, the Canadian government is seeking to demonstrate its commitment to combatting drug trafficking—even as it continues to refine exactly what powers and responsibilities the position will hold. As the role evolves, many will be watching to see whether this cross-border initiative can effectively contribute to reducing the opioid crisis and easing tensions with its southern neighbor .

In essence, Canada’s new fentanyl czar is less about wielding unilateral power and more about fostering a collaborative, coordinated approach to a complex international challenge.

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