The global trade in counterfeit goods in 2021 was valued at about $467 billion and accounted for 2.3% of total global imports, according to a new study by EUIPO and the OECD.

The study, Mapping Global Trade in Fakes 2025: Global Trends and Enforcement Challenges, was published on 6 May 2025.

It provides information on the key characteristics trade in counterfeits globally and in the EU based on the most recent global Customs seizure data, which dates from 2021.

According to the study, the value of imports of fakes into the EU in 2021 was estimated at €99 billion, and accounted for 4.7% of imports from the rest of the world.

It also found that China and Hong Kong are the main provenance economies of counterfeit goods, followed by Türkiye. However, counterfeiters are increasingly using international waterways, adopting localisation strategies to produce fakes closer to end markets and using free-trade zones.

The top categories of fakes include clothing, footwear and accessories such as handbags but about 50 distinct product categories (out of 96) appear in Customs seizure data.

The study found that counterfeiters exploit online platforms and logistics to infiltrate legitimate trade, and postal services are emerging as the primary channel for distribution of small parcels.

The methodology for the study was developed by the OECD in 2008 and has been enhanced by the two organisations since.

EUIPO states: “Strengthening enforcement requires better coordination, information sharing and collaboration with rights holders and trade intermediaries. Enhanced engagement with trade intermediaries, including postal and shipping services, is critical to curbing illicit trade and safeguarding global supply chains.”

More information, including a link to download the study, is available on EUIPO’s website here.

The picture shows the cover of the study