The Chinese-owned bargain-priced stores are back in the headlines, this time after the authorities seized thousands of goods that reportedly were fakes of a famous brand school supplies products.
Authorities in Santo Domingo report having confiscated over 3,800 counterfeit school items from a commercial establishment on Duarte Avenue, a bustling commercial hub in the National District where dozens of Chinese merchants in recent years have opened their businesses. The raid targeted a store operated by foreign merchants that was found to be selling fake merchandise emblazoned with the logos of well-known brands.
The operation, spearheaded by the Public Ministry’s Intellectual Property Unit, uncovered 1,275 fake backpacks, 1,275 lunchboxes, and 1,275 pencil cases. The seizure is part of an ongoing investigation into violations of Law No. 20-00 on Industrial Property.
Jonathan Baró Gutiérrez, head of the Intellectual Property Unit, emphasized the consumer impact of such illicit sales. “Consumers see the logo of a recognized brand and trust they are acquiring an authentic product, but what they receive is a low-quality imitation,” Baró Gutiérrez stated. “This not only constitutes commercial fraud but also violates every person’s right to receive truthful information about their purchases.”
He further explained that the unauthorized use of a brand’s visual identity is a clear infringement of trademark rights and an act of unfair competition, both of which are penalized under Law No. 20-00.
“These types of practices not only damage the image and reputation of the brand but also affect consumers, who are misled regarding the origin and quality of the products they acquire,” Baró Gutiérrez added.
The raid was led by prosecutors Bony Esther Suriel and Lauridelissa Jiménez, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and consumer interests in the Dominican Republic.
Chinese-owned stores have been in the media headlines for major violations to labor and tax laws.
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El Dia
31 July 2025