Trade in Counterfeit Goods that Pose Health, Safety and Environmental Risks
Illicit trade in counterfeit goods causes economic damage by reducing sales and profits
as well as innovation incentives in legitimate industries. At the same time, some
counterfeits can be of low quality and create significant additional risks, including
health risks (fake pharmaceuticals or food products), safety risks (counterfeit automotive
spare parts, fake batteries) and environmental risks (fake chemicals or pesticides).
This study presents detailed information on the value of counterfeit trade in such
dangerous fake goods, analyses changes in the volumes and composition of the goods,
and maps key trade routes. The evidence in this report can be used to raise awareness
of the risks of this trade and its implications for health and environmental policy.