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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 Dodges Major Impact in Trump's Tariff Storm

In a sweeping move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced retaliatory tariffs targeting imports from dozens of countries. While Canada wasn't entirely spared, it avoided the harshest measures. The new tariffs include a 25% levy on foreign-made automobiles, which could have significant implications for Canada's auto industry. However, Canada is exempt from the baseline 10% tariff applied to other nations.

Trump's administration claims these tariffs aim to bolster domestic manufacturing, but critics warn of potential economic fallout, including higher consumer prices and strained international relations. Canada, already facing tariffs on steel, aluminum, and energy, remains cautious as bilateral tensions continue to rise.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of preserving Canada's economic stability amid shifting trade dynamics. The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining trade partnerships and navigating protectionist policies.

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