WHY THE WARNING AGAINST BUYING COUNTERFEITS?
- Importing counterfeit goods is illegal in Switzerland. Customs can seize fake goods and destroy them, even when it’s ‘just’ a small souvenir for personal use.
- The counterfeiting industry is part of organised crime. By buying fake goods, you’re supporting criminals who couldn’t care less about jobs and working conditions.
- Counterfeit goods are of inferior quality. Manufacturers don’t care about your health and safety. Fake medication, tools, toys and spare parts can be particularly dangerous.
- Counterfeiters don’t invest in research and development. Instead, they steal ideas and don’t pay any taxes or social security contributions from their illegally-earned money. As a result, the economy pays the price and jobs are destroyed.
- Counterfeiters can’t be held accountable for warranty and liability claims because their identities are unknown.
You can find more information about how to recognise counterfeits and pirated copies here.
Recognising counterfeits