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The Second Global Congress on Combating Counterfeiting and Piracy opens in Lyon, France, on Monday, with the aim of identifying concrete solutions and practical action required by governments and the private sector to develop effective anti-counterfeiting strategies.

International trade in counterfeit products is estimated to exceed six per cent of global trade. It is not only damaging to business and investment opportunities, but also has severe implications for society, public health and the global economy. Counterfeits can now be found in almost every market area, including pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, luxury goods and DVDs.

More than 500 delegates from 66 countries are expected to attend the two-day congress, which takes place from 14-15 November. It is co-sponsored by INTERPOL and the World Customs Organization (WCO), with support from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Key speakers will include INTERPOL Secretary General Ronald K. Noble, WCO Secretary General Michel Danet, WIPO Deputy Director General Rita Hayes and Vice President of the European Commission Franco Frattini, in addition to senior government officials from China, Nigeria and the United States.