Russian I/P Enforcement

In an August 31, 2004 article appearing in the St. Petersburg Times, it was reported that, last year, 500 underground factories had been uncovered and 3,500 criminal cases had been brought. According to the author,

Once a working relationship is developed and the procedures understood, the Russian government's own desire to combat illegal production works to the advantage of the trademark owner. Navigating the system requires resolve, determination and knowledge, but perseverance gets results. Russians are very brand-conscious and the market is too big to ignore. Given the amount of money trademark owners invest to promote and market their brands, professional assistance when needed to combat illegal production makes strong economic sense and has left many with a sense of empowerment.