Fake FIFA World Cup jerseys bound for the US, Mexico and Canada have been seized in Hong Kong

Just hours before the FIFA World Cup was set to kick off, Hong Kong authorities announced the seizure of 230,000 suspected counterfeit items worth an estimated $20 million, including thousands of jerseys related to the tournament.

The haul included about 30,000 jerseys, some so well made that they were difficult to distinguish from authentic team shirts, said Wayne Chung, senior inspector at Hong Kong’s customs department.

Most of the items seized were replicas of player edition jerseys, which tend to be more expensive than fan versions due to their superior design and higher quality materials, Chung said.

The counterfeit goods were intended for overseas markets, with almost 80% destined for America, where the World Cup is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Mexico faces South Africa in the tournament opener on Thursday.

Authorities also seized counterfeit shoes, watches, speakers and handbags during raids on logistics centers between late May and early June. Replicas of Louis Vuitton handbags and Rolex watches were on display at a press conference on Thursday.

Chung said investigators believe the counterfeit goods were likely intended to meet demand from tourists and consumers abroad. Authorities continue to investigate its origins.

During the operation, a truck driver was arrested at a border checkpoint on the bridge connecting Hong Kong with mainland China and neighboring Macau. Five others were arrested for allegedly selling counterfeit jerseys online. All have now been released on bail.

Chung said anyone convicted of importing, exporting, selling or possessing counterfeit goods faces a maximum prison sentence of five years and a fine of about $64,000.

Published on June 11, 2026