Hong Kong Customs Seizes $1.2 Million in Counterfeit Luxury Sneakers
According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), Hong Kong’s Customs and Excise Department has confiscated 18,000 pairs of counterfeit luxury sneakers bearing the logos of renowned brands such as Nike, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. The total estimated value of the seized goods is HK$10 million (approximately $1.28 million USD).
Authorities report that the counterfeit items were meticulously crafted, boasting high-quality materials and designs that make them nearly indistinguishable from authentic products. The shipment was allegedly destined for international markets, capitalizing on the surging demand during global events like sneaker conventions and fashion festivals.
Counterfeit sneakers displayed during the raid.
Inspector Yeung Tit-fung, from the Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau, stated that major events like international sneaker expos have become hotspots for counterfeit trafficking.
“At these events, collectors and enthusiasts often trade items on-site, fueling a sharp rise in demand for high-quality fakes,” Yeung explained.
Between October 6 and 17, customs officials conducted nine raids, seizing a total of 18,000 items, including sneakers and luxury accessories.
Yeung noted that the confiscated products are virtually identical to genuine items, with many being limited editions or newly released models—evidence that counterfeiters are rapidly adapting to global consumer trends.
Seized counterfeit goods during inspection.
Two cross-border truck drivers, aged 59 and 65, were arrested in separate incidents while attempting to transport the counterfeit goods via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.
Initial investigations reveal that the seized items were intended for export, primarily to Europe and the Americas, rather than for domestic distribution.
Yeung emphasized that the global rise in sneaker collecting and luxury footwear demand has emboldened criminal networks to produce increasingly sophisticated counterfeits, inflicting significant losses on legitimate brands and distorting consumer markets.
Hong Kong Customs is actively investigating the production origins and international distribution networks behind these fakes, while strengthening collaborations with global fashion brands to combat intellectual property violations.
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