Global counterfeit goods trade surge

In 2025, counterfeit trade reached record levels in both China and the European Union. In the EU, authorities seized 196 million counterfeit items, a 67% increase in volume over 2024, with an estimated retail value of approximately 6.3 billion euros. Major categories included CDs, DVDs, toys, electronics, and clothing. Italy accounted for over 70% of internal market seizures, while Romania, Bulgaria, and Italy saw high volumes at external borders. Spain and Germany represented the highest values of goods seized at borders.

Simultaneously, Chinese customs authorities seized between 75 million and 86 million suspected counterfeit items. Data from the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) indicated that 37,000 intellectual property cases were processed, involving roughly 677 million RMB.

Reports indicate that a significant portion of the goods intercepted in the EU originate from China, frequently using Hong Kong as a transshipment hub. Experts noted that structural dynamics in China may influence these figures, as the trade can support local employment and foreign exchange. To mitigate risks, brand owners are advised to register trademarks in both Latin and Chinese characters and utilize specific customs and platform protection tools.