In the past 20 years, we have seen a dramatic increase in gray market goods. These goods are exported and sold by unauthorized people or organizations. There are a number of examples of this. In th

In the past 20 years, we have seen a dramatic increase in gray market goods.  These goods are exported and sold by unauthorized people or organizations.  There are a number of examples of this.  In the US, you can find a number of “knockoff” sports jerseys, perfumes, handbags, and watches which are sold online, at some small businesses, flea markets, and even on the streets of bigger cities.  These products are made by a variety of manufacturers, some of these manufacturers are the ones that actually make the high-end brand, putting them in a good position to make knock off products.  Have you or anyone you know ever purchased one of these products?  What was your/their experience with the product?  With the prevalence of the internet, is it possible to prevent gray markets?  Do you believe that it is something that significant resources should be devoted to preventing? What would happen if gray markets expanded and went unpunished?  Would consumers benefit in the end or be harmed?