The trade in counterfeit goods represents a real threat to the global economy. However, this statement falls short if we also consider its social and labour implications: behind many counterfeit products are often exploited people.
The recent study, “From Fakes to Forced Labour” (OECD/EUIPO, 2026) by the European Observatory on Infringements of Intellectual Property Rights, examines the issue in detail and provides new evidence of the direct link between illicit trade in counterfeit goods and abusive labour practices (forced labour, child labour, hazardous work, informal employment, and high occupational injury rates), particularly in countries with weak governance and labour protections.
The data are clear: in countries identified as sources of counterfeit products, there is a correlation between weak labour protections and increased labour abuse (long working hours, lack of contracts, unsafe machinery, involvement of children and irregular migrant workers, etc.), which makes the counterfeit trade more profitable.
The report highlights that combating counterfeiting cannot rely solely on anti-counterfeiting strategies or increased controls and seizures. It is essential to move towards global policies that effectively protect workers’ rights, supported by strong regulatory frameworks and responsible business conduct.
Ignoring the social and labour dimension of this illicit trade perpetuates the problem. Therefore, it is crucial to remember that by tackling counterfeiting, we are also defending decent work.
Laura Conde
Lawyer
