UK Government Updates IP Crime Enforcement Resources and Expands IP Crime Group Membership

The UK government continues to strengthen its efforts against intellectual property (IP) crime by updating resources and expanding the membership of the UK IP Crime Group. These initiatives are designed to help businesses understand how IP crime occurs, its impact, and the options available to address infringement.

On 18 May 2026, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) was added to the UK IP Crime Group, reflecting the growing importance of IP protection in the health sector. Earlier, on 9 March 2026, companies Authentix and Sony Interactive Entertainment joined the group, bringing expertise from authentication services and the interactive entertainment industry.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) was incorporated into the UK IP Crime Group on 16 February 2026, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the beverage industry in combating counterfeit products.

In a related development, on 27 May 2025, the Film Content Protection Agency (FCPA) and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) were added to the Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group. Additionally, the Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (CITMA) was included in the Useful Contacts section, providing businesses with access to specialized trademark legal expertise.

Amazon UK became a member of the IP Crime Group on 13 February 2025, coinciding with updates to the 'Get legal advice' and 'Criminal action' sections of the IP crime and enforcement guidance for businesses. This inclusion underscores the role of major online marketplaces in IP enforcement.

Further enhancements to the guidance were made on 21 January 2025, with Section 3, titled 'How to enforce your intellectual property,' receiving new information to assist rights holders in navigating enforcement procedures.

On 29 February 2024, the government updated sections concerning the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC) and the Copyright Tribunal, providing clearer pathways for affordable access to justice for businesses facing IP infringement.

The government’s IP crime and enforcement resources emphasize affordable legal options, including proceedings before IPEC and private prosecutions, to empower businesses in protecting their intellectual property rights.

These ongoing updates and expansions of the IP Crime Group membership demonstrate the UK’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment among public bodies, industry stakeholders, and legal experts to combat IP crime effectively.