Hong Kong seizes counterfeit World Cup goods worth HK$156 million (NT$646 million) ahead of 2026 tournament

(Central News Agency, reporter Zhang Qian, Hong Kong, 11th) On the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Hong Kong Customs conducted an operation targeting counterfeit goods related to the event, seizing 230,000 counterfeit and infringing items, including jerseys and shoes, with an estimated market value of HK$156 million (approximately NT$6.46 billion).

Customs announced today the special operation carried out from May 26 to yesterday, aimed at combating the cross-border transshipment and online sale of counterfeit and infringing World Cup goods.

Customs believes these goods were intended for re-export overseas, not for the local market, and that 80% of the goods were destined for the Americas.

During the operation, customs officers arrested six individuals.

Customs stated that this World Cup is the largest in history, and demand for related merchandise among fans and tourists is expected to rise significantly during the event, leading to an increase in related counterfeit activities.

According to the announcement, the seized counterfeit jerseys are highly realistic, with some being meticulously crafted, making it difficult for average consumers to distinguish them from genuine products. (Editor: Zhou Huiying) 1150611