Interesting topic - I'm no expert in IP and patent law, but i presume it would be hard to copyright a pontoon craft globally or even locally (potentially only any particularly unique feature Stabi has designed). Hence the multitude of pontoon competitors in the NZ-built market.
Even if you have a copyright over a particular design feature, how do you enforce that within the economic juggernaut to our north? I'd say snowball's chance...
The more important issue I believe, and one which I'd like to be enlightened about from Forum members,relates to these importers being able to bring in and sell products for activities where safety standards are critical.
I have no idea about welding, but I'll assume you guys are right about the quality.
I mean we're not talking about knock off football shirts, or fake superhero toys here. People will head out to sea on these boats.
I recently dismantled a NZ-sold trampoline (a well-meaning gift from the in-laws) which in my view turned out to be incredibly unsafe and not fit for purpose - important parts had completely rusted through in five years, the fibreglass tubing the safety net hangs off had split in several places, the safety pads were splitting apart and I could rip the stitching with my bare hands etc etc. How these are allowed to be sold in the market here is beyond me.
Surely these boats in question have to receive some kind of safety standard certification to be offered for sale?
(edit) If not, it just seems nuts.