Travelling is an exciting experience that helps you explore new cultures and places and, whether you want to take photos for your Instagram or personal collection, many of us want to look stylish on the go. With the cost of living being so high, you may be tempted to wear counterfeit goods while travelling, but Ben Schreiber from handbag company Latico Leathers warns that doing so could result in a criminal conviction and a hefty fine.
Ben said: "Most people don't see a problem in getting a designer item for a fraction of the cost and see counterfeit designer items as a victimless crime. However, that isn't true and every time you buy a counterfeit item, a legitimate company loses revenue, which over time can lead to the loss of jobs. When it comes to counterfeit goods most people fall into two categories, either they don't know or they don't care, but depending on the country you are travelling to this could have serious consequences."
Legal implications of travelling with counterfeit goods
Each country you travel to will have different laws and punishments when it comes to travelling with counterfeit goods.
Ben said: "Depending on the countries you pass through, your punishment could range significantly. In the United Kingdom, your counterfeit goods will be seized and you may be prosecuted by the intellectual property right holder. Bringing counterfeit goods into the United States may result in civil or criminal penalties along with your goods being destroyed. Repeat offenders could be fined up to double the value of the trademarked goods.
"Other places in Europe such as France or Italy have harsher punishments on those who wear fake goods. In Italy, you could face six months to three years imprisonment as well as a fine of 2,500 Euros to 25,000 Euros. However, if you are planning to travel to France, you should know that their counterfeit laws are some of the most strict on the planet.
"Custom officers in France have the right to seize anything they suspect is fake. These officers will charge you with a criminal offence, which can carry a three-year prison sentence and a huge fine of 300,000 Euros. French customs will also notify the brand of the fake items so they can initiate additional proceedings in court."
While some of these punishments may seem extreme, the purpose of cracking down on fake goods is to minimise job loss, prevent health and safety issues and even fight organised crime.
Ben added: "Replica goods such as handbags can still cost thousands and you risk having your items destroyed or even worse going to prison. If you can't buy the real thing, you are far better off investing in a quality bag that doesn't have a big brand attached to it.
"You will still get an excellent product, without the big price tag. But if that doesn't change your mind and you are determined to own fakes it's better to leave your replica bags at home instead of travelling with them."
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