Nintendo Asks Trade Office To Fight Piracy

In its annual report to the U.S. Trade Office, Nintendo has asked for help in dealing with overseas piracy.  The list contains most of the usual countries, with Spain being the new offender.  In addition, Hong Kong was taken completely off the list.  Will this list accomplish much in stopping piracy overseas?  That answer is up for debate, but in the meantime, here is a summary of the countries that were named as reported by Kotaku:

China – Nintendo claims that online shopping sites that sell infringing Nintendo products are increasing.  These products are not only sold to customers in China, but also to those in the United States.

Korea – While internet piracy in Korea continues, 10 customs raids at the beginning of this year resulted in the seizure of more than 75,000 game copiers.

Brazil – Nintendo claims that efforts to prosecute for piracy are very weak, as not a single shipment of Nintendo video game products were seized in 2008.  In addition to internet piracy, high tariffs and taxes make barriers for official Nintendo products.

Mexico – According to Nintendo, anti-piracy actions taken by the Mexican government in 2008 are inadequate.  While Mexico is participating in negotiating the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement, there must be more enforcement.

Spain – There is an incredible amount of game-copying devices and illegal Nintendo software available.  Nintendo is asking the Spanish government to protect the copyright industry and enact laws against internet piracy.

Paraguay – Nintendo’s anti-piracy actions showed that illegal goods are both being imported and produced in this country.  Nintendo cites corruption as the reason that anti-piracy efforts in Paraguay have not been effective.