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 linked to the tournament.

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

Most of the seized items were replicas of player-edition jerseys, which are typically 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 nearly 80% destined for the Americas, where the World Cup is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Mexico faces South Africa in the tournament opener on Thursday.

Authorities also seized counterfeit footwear, watches, speakers and handbags during raids conducted at logistics centres between late May and early June. Replicas of Louis Vuitton handbags and Rolex watches were displayed at a news conference on Thursday.

Chung said investigators believe the fake goods were likely intended to meet demand from tourists and consumers abroad. Authorities are continuing to investigate their origin.

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

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

Published on Jun 11, 2026