Temu inks MoU with IACC amid concerns over illegal goods shipped from Asia to European customers

Temu, an online marketplace operated by Chinese e-commerce company PDD Holdings, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition (IACC).

This was signed during the IACC's 2025 Annual Conference in San Diego last week. As part of the collaboration, Temu has joined the IACC's newly launched Marketplace Advisory Council (MAC) as an inaugural member.

This is a cross industry forum that includes online marketplaces, payment providers, and brands, such as Amazon, eBay, Mastercard, PayPal, and Visa, aimed at setting a new standard for cooperation in the fight against counterfeit goods. 

The move comes amid concerns about the rise of such goods shipped from Asia directly to European customers, with the European Commission last year opening an investigation into Temu over accusations that it was doing too little to stop the sale of illegal products.

"We're pleased to welcome Temu as an inaugural member of the Marketplace Advisory Council and as a key partner in our shared fight against counterfeiting," says Bob Barchiesi, President, International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition.

"This MoU reflects a meaningful step forward in our collaboration, grounded in transparency, accountability, and a joint commitment to consumer protection. The IACC created the MAC to bring stakeholders together in a way that drives real, sustained impact - and Temu's participation helps strengthen that vision." 

"Joining this coalition underscores our commitment to building a trustworthy online marketplace," said a Temu spokesperson. "We look forward to collaborating with other industry leaders to create a powerful, collective force against the sale of illegal goods online." 

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

E-commerce will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.