Law enforcement agencies in northern China have shut down large-scale manufacturing of counterfeit Viton FreeFlow fluoroelastomer, a product falsely bearing Chemours' trademarks, at a local chemical plant.

During an investigation at the facility, authorities discovered a substantial quantity of the fake fluoroelastomer, including 4.7 tons of finished products and 9 tons of raw materials (expected to produce approximately 20 tons of finished products), as well as packaging materials and related business documents. The value of the counterfeit products was reported to be in the millions of dollars.

The plant and its affiliated entities reportedly purchased genuine Viton FreeFlow fluoroelastomer from Chemours local subsidiaries to help mask their counterfeiting operations.

Local police, in collaboration with Chemours’ local counsel and a subsidiary, have so far apprehended two individuals who now face charges related to the illegal production and distribution of counterfeit goods. The suspects' identities are being withheld pending further investigation.

“This operation represents a significant stride in our ongoing battle against counterfeit production and the illicit trade of fake goods,” said Eric von Brockdorff, Global Product & Business Director for Chemours. “Counterfeit goods, especially in the chemical sector, pose substantial risks to safety, product quality, and the reputation of authentic products.”

“The success of this interdiction also underscores the importance of our collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies in combating counterfeit production,” von Brockdorff added. “It’s yet another way we put the interests of our customers and business partners first.”