Hong Kong's 'Dry Match' Operation
Hong Kong's customs authority executed a targeted crackdown, code-named 'Dry Match,' aimed at dismantling a supply network for fake football gear ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Running from May 26 to June 10, the operation resulted in the confiscation of roughly 230,000 counterfeit items valued at 156 million Hong Kong dollars—nearly 20 million US dollars. Most of the illegal goods were intercepted at the border with mainland China.
Operation Details
During the operation, customs officers stopped two trucks at checkpoints near the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge and the Shenzhen Bay control zone. The driver of one truck, a 36-year-old man, was detained on site. Raids also led to the arrest of five additional suspects, aged 17 to 30. All six individuals have been released on bail pending further investigation.
The seized items included:
- soccer balls
- national team kits for World Cup participants
- approximately 30,000 replica jerseys
The jerseys were sold online for between 1,100 and 1,300 Hong Kong dollars (140 to 165 US dollars). Around 80% of the goods were slated for export to North and South American markets.
'The products were almost entirely not intended for the Hong Kong market.' - Wayne Chung, customs department spokesperson
Chung also noted that 'the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams has driven a sharp increase in demand for football merchandise and fueled the black market.'
Under Hong Kong law, importing, exporting, selling, or storing counterfeit goods carries a fine of up to 500,000 Hong Kong dollars (about 64,000 US dollars) and a maximum prison sentence of five years. The 'Dry Match' operation marks a significant step in curbing the illegal sports merchandise trade in the region.
This crackdown highlights the growing challenge of counterfeit products linked to major international sporting events like the World Cup. The large-scale seizure reflects law enforcement's proactive efforts against illicit supply chains, which could help protect both consumers and legitimate manufacturers. With demand for football gear on the rise, continued vigilance by customs and regulatory bodies remains essential.