Counterfeiting — you might think it only happens to big, global brands. But that’s not true.
If you’re a startup with a good product, solution or technology, you could become a target much sooner than you think.

Today, counterfeiters don’t discriminate. All companies, industries and product types are at risk. It’s no longer just about handbags, watches and sunglasses. These days, counterfeits also include:

• food and beverages,
• electronic devices,
• automotive and aircraft parts,
• toys,
• household products,
• furniture and even software.

And the consequences? They’re not just financia, they can also be dangerous to the health and safety of users.
 

What do numbers show?

During operation OPSON, led by Europol and Interpol, counterfeit food and drink worth €91 million was seized. Dangerous substances were detected: methanol, mercury, pesticides. In the EU alone, counterfeiting causes annual revenue losses of €2.3 billion in the beverage sector and nearly 5,700 lost jobs.
The global value of counterfeit trade in 2021 reached $467 billion. That’s 2.3% of all global trade. Imports of counterfeits into the EU amount to €99 billion (4.7% of all EU imports). Read more.

Main countries of origin: China, Hong Kong, Turkey.

How can you protect your business?

If you have a product that stands out, it’s time to take protection into your own hands and choose the best form of safeguarding for your product or service.
The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) offers practical tools to help:
🔹 Anti-Counterfeiting Technology Guide

Technologies and tools for identifying counterfeits and protecting against fraud.
🔹 Anti-Counterfeiting and Anti-Piracy Technology Guide

More than 40 technologies to help protect your intellectual property.
🔹 IP Scan Enforcement + EUIPO financial support
Experts identify your vulnerabilities and help you define a protection strategy.
 

Your innovation isn’t protected until it’s really protected.

Don’t wait for your idea to end up in someone else’s hands. Protect your product, brand and company — now.

For more information, visit the Slovenian Intellectual Property Office website or contact the Slovenian provider of the IP Scan Enforcement service.