knockoffs

Knockoffs are imitation products that closely resemble well-known brands or designer goods but are sold at lower prices. They are designed to evoke the appearance, branding, or style of a popular item without necessarily using the brand's official marks. The term is most commonly used in fashion, accessories, cosmetics, electronics, and consumer goods.

Difference from counterfeits: A counterfeit typically uses a registered trademark or brand name in order to mislead consumers into believing the product is authentic. Knockoffs, by contrast, may imitate the look of a product or brand without copying logos or claiming to be official, though they can still cause confusion among buyers.

Legal status: Knockoffs raise intellectual property considerations under trademark, copyright, and design rights. Some jurisdictions treat deceptive knockoffs as unfair competition or trademark infringement, while others allow look-alike products provided they do not cause consumer confusion or violate labeling and safety laws.

Market and supply: Knockoffs are common in marketplaces, street stalls, and online platforms. They often travel through informal supply chains and may be produced at lower cost by reducing materials, labor standards, or quality controls.

Impact and ethics: While knockoffs can offer lower-cost options for consumers, they can undermine brand investments, harm reputations, and raise safety or labor concerns. Regulators, brands, and consumer groups pursue enforcement measures, including trademark actions, customs seizures, and public awareness campaigns.

See also: counterfeit goods, trademark law, design rights, unfair competition.