England Fans Caught Wearing Fake Shirts Face Fines of €5,000 in Germany

Travelling through Europe with counterfeit designer items can lead to severe fines. Sports analysts from freebets.ie tell us about the specific laws each country has to combat the spread of fake goods. Here’s a closer look at the regulations across Europe, in particular Germany ahead of the Euros this summer.

Italy

Law: In Italy, it is illegal to buy, sell, or possess counterfeit goods. The law, known as the “Legge Finanziaria,” aims to protect the Italian fashion industry and consumers.

Penalty: If caught with fake designer items, you can be fined up to £10,000. Authorities are particularly vigilant in tourist hotspots and major cities.

France

Law: France has strict regulations against counterfeit goods under the French Intellectual Property Code. The law prohibits the import, sale, and possession of fake items.

Penalty: Travellers caught with counterfeit items can face fines up to £6,000. The French customs officers regularly inspect luggage at airports and borders.

Germany

Law: Germany enforces anti-counterfeiting laws through the German Trademark Act. The Act prohibits the distribution, sale, and possession of fake designer goods.

Penalty: Penalties for carrying counterfeit items can reach up to £4,000. German authorities conduct random checks, especially at major transport hubs.

Spain

Law: Spain’s laws against counterfeit goods are enforced under the Spanish Penal Code. The law bans the sale and possession of fake items, particularly in tourist areas.

Penalty: Fines for possessing counterfeit goods can be as high as £2,500. Spanish police and customs officials frequently patrol markets and shopping areas.

Switzerland

Law: Switzerland has stringent laws against counterfeit goods under the Swiss Federal Act on the Protection of TradeMarks and Indications of Source. The law covers the import and possession of fake items.

Penalty: If you are found with counterfeit goods, you could be fined up to £2,000. Swiss customs officers are thorough in their inspections at borders and airports.

Sports Analyst Alex Hemming from freebets.ie also says

“Carrying fake designer items in Europe can lead to significant fines, with Italy imposing penalties as high as £10,000. To avoid these fines, it is essential to understand and follow the laws of each country you visit. Always buy authentic goods, keep your receipts, and be aware of the regulations to ensure a trouble-free trip.”

Credit:  freebets.ie