After a two-week investigation, Hong Kong Customs seized 18,000 pairs of counterfeit sports shoes and garments transiting through local logistics hubs and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Two truck drivers were arrested.
The goods, mainly imitation high-end sneaker brands, were destined for European online retailers. Customs officers said cross-boundary trafficking syndicates increasingly exploit Hong Kong’s role as a re-export centre, hiding fakes among genuine cargo.
The bust demonstrates that IP enforcement remains a high priority as the city promotes itself as a trusted logistics hub. Shippers are urged to enhance due-diligence checks; brand owners should use track-and-trace technology to flag suspicious consignments.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, importing or exporting fake goods carries penalties of up to five years in prison – a risk freight forwarders must incorporate into compliance programmes.
The goods, mainly imitation high-end sneaker brands, were destined for European online retailers. Customs officers said cross-boundary trafficking syndicates increasingly exploit Hong Kong’s role as a re-export centre, hiding fakes among genuine cargo.
The bust demonstrates that IP enforcement remains a high priority as the city promotes itself as a trusted logistics hub. Shippers are urged to enhance due-diligence checks; brand owners should use track-and-trace technology to flag suspicious consignments.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, importing or exporting fake goods carries penalties of up to five years in prison – a risk freight forwarders must incorporate into compliance programmes.
