Hong Kong Seizes $20 Million in Counterfeit World Cup Goods, Arrests 13

Hong Kong authorities have confiscated an estimated 240,000 counterfeit items linked to the 2026 World Cup, with a total value of approximately $20.2 million USD. The seizure, part of a nearly two-month operation dubbed 'Zero Goal,' also led to the arrest of 13 individuals.

The operation, conducted between May 26 and July 19, targeted the import, transit, and online sale of goods suspected of infringing intellectual property rights. Customs officials detected around fifty cases involving suspicious merchandise. The confiscated items included football jerseys, balls, sports footwear, and other tournament-related articles.

Authorities believe these counterfeit goods were destined for both local consumers via digital platforms and markets outside Hong Kong. The arrested individuals, all men aged between 15 and 59, have been released on bail as investigations continue. Officials have not ruled out further arrests.

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The fake jerseys were sold at prices between 60% and 70% lower than the original products.

Ng Ka-chun, head of the Customs' technology and intellectual property crime investigation division, noted that the fake jerseys were sold at prices 60% to 70% lower than original products. He attributed the large seizure volume to the increasing demand for World Cup merchandise. Customs agents utilized data analysis to identify advertisements and sellers on social media and e-commerce platforms.

Under Hong Kong's laws, importing, exporting, selling, or possessing counterfeit branded merchandise for sale can result in penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to 500,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately $63,767 USD).

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Our people will never forget the unparalleled heroism, exceptional courage, and sacrifice of the Korean soldiers, who demonstrated by fighting alongside us in the same trench against a common enemy.