65,934 Pieces of Pirate Merchandise Seized in Mexico City's Historic Center

Mexican authorities have confiscated approximately 65,934 pieces of merchandise suspected of infringing on FIFA brands in the Historic Center of Mexico City. The operation, conducted by the Secretariat of Economy (SE) and the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI), targeted Plaza Cristal, located at Rodríguez Puebla 19.

During the "Operation Clean Sweep," 20 verification visits were carried out, resulting in the seizure of items bearing brands such as Adidas, Reebok, Jordan, Umbro, New Balance, New Era, and Fila. The estimated value of the counterfeit goods is over 6.16 million pesos. According to local residents, items like Adidas t-shirts were being sold for 250 to 300 pesos, complete with authentic-looking labels and packaging.

The SE stated that the primary objective is to secure merchandise that allegedly violates intellectual property rights and to safeguard it within IMPI facilities as part of ongoing administrative procedures. This action aligns with commitments made in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup and aims to protect FIFA's trademarks and those of participating national teams. The operation was led by IMPI Director General Vidal Llerenas Morales, with participation from 70 inspectors and coordination with the Secretariat of Citizen Security and the Navy.