US CBP seizes $3.5 million worth of counterfeit luxury jewelry in One Consignment Sent from China to Puerto Rico

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at an express consignment location seized a shipment containing fake designer jewelry worth $3.5 million had it been genuine.

The consignment was intercepted on Feb. 20, originating from China and destined for a residence in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico.  The package contained 660 jewelry items such as rings, bracelets and necklaces, which resembled the well-known luxury brand Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Alhambra” line.   

“Buying counterfeit luxury jewelry from China may seem like a bargain, but it often fuels criminal enterprises involved in money laundering, forced labor, and even organized crime. These counterfeit networks exploit workers, evade taxes, and undermine legitimate businesses while funding illicit activities such as human trafficking and drug trade,” stated Efrain Rivas, Assistant Director of Field Operations for Trade at the San Juan Field Office. “ Every purchase supports an underground economy that thrives on deception and exploitation.”