Hong Kong Cracks Down on Counterfeit World Cup Gear

Authorities in Hong Kong seized suspected counterfeit World Cup items, including soccer jerseys and balls worth HK$156 million. Wayne Chung, a senior investigator, reported 230,000 items were confiscated. Most of these jerseys were meant for export due to high demand during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Authorities in Hong Kong have conducted a major operation, confiscating what they suspect to be counterfeit World Cup merchandise, including soccer jerseys and balls, estimated to value HK$156 million.

Wayne Chung from the city's Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau announced on Thursday that 230,000 items were seized, many mirroring genuine soccer shirts worn by participating countries in the World Cup.

'These are not meant for the local market. At least 80% are headed to America due to the high demand for jerseys during the World Cup,' Chung stated. The tournament started this Thursday and runs until July 19.