; Whereas the growth of both global commerce and electronic commerce has expedited the evolving problem because it has given third-party actors an enhanced opportunity to reach consumers that they may have not previously been able to reach; Whereas the deceptive tactics of counterfeiters and their counterfeit products pose actual and potential harm to the health and safety of United States citizens, especially the most vulnerable consumers in society, such as senior citizens and children; Whereas, according to the 2023 Special 301 Report issued by the Office the United States Trade Representative, counterfeit items often do not comply with regulated safety standards, and as a result, vast amounts of unsafe products are constantly circulating the market and endangering the public; Whereas goods originating in China and Hong Kong account for more than 80 percent of all global customs seizures of dangerous counterfeit goods, including foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other goods; Whereas many international criminals used the COVID–19 pandemic to exploit the market with numerous counterfeits, and as a result, have defrauded United States citizens; Whereas counterfeit medical products pose a particular threat to the safety and health of consumers in the United States because the counterfeit product does not provide the same level of protection as an authentic article; Whereas these dangers were elevated during the COVID–19 pandemic by significant trafficking in counterfeit personal protective equipment, medical devices, and COVID–19 treatments; Whereas, according to the World Trademark review, as of March 25, 2021, there were 2,054 COVID–19 related seizures, including counterfeit masks and medicines totaling in excess of $47,200,000, with 265 arrests