Ms. Chau Bich Ha, born in 1994 and residing in Thanh My Tay ward, was found guilty of "infringement of industrial property rights" by the People's Court of District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, in May. The court concluded that she sold 1,810 pairs of sandals counterfeiting international brands, including New Balance, with a total value of 498,9 million dong.
As a result, Ms. Ha received a 350 million dong fine. She is also banned from holding positions in registered businesses or individual business households for one year from the effective date of the verdict. Furthermore, the court ordered her to compensate New Balance Athletics, Inc. 20 million dong for reputation damages and to issue a public apology on three online newspapers specified by the company.
In compliance with the court's judgment, Ms. Chau Bich Ha issued an apology to New Balance Athletics, Inc., a company headquartered in Saigon ward. Ms. Ha explained that during her previous business operations, which involved managing a footwear store, she inadvertently infringed upon certain business practices related to the New Balance brand. She attributed this to a lack of understanding, incomplete awareness, and subjective views regarding legal regulations on business models, intellectual property rights, and commercial standards. Her actions, she acknowledged, negatively impacted the company's legal rights and interests, as well as the brand's reputation.
"I am fully aware that regardless of the reason, failing to fully comply with legal regulations in business is a serious error, and I take full responsibility for my actions," Ms. Ha stated in her apology. "I sincerely admit my mistake, seriously acknowledge my shortcomings, and consider this a profound lesson in my business operations and legal awareness."
Ms. Ha hopes her case will serve as a reminder for herself and other individuals and business households about the importance of conducting business legally, transparently, and responsibly. "I hope the company acknowledges my efforts to remedy the situation and shows understanding," she added.
(Source: NVCC)
