Tourists in Europe may face bizarre fines for clothing items
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Many European countries have fines for clothing. Some items are strictly forbidden in public, while others prohibit buying, selling, storing, or using counterfeit items. Fines for counterfeiting can reach $12,000, according to Birmingham Live.
Germany
Most recently, a tourist in Germany was fined €5,000 for wearing counterfeit sneakers and a T-shirt. And this case is no longer an exception.
Traveling around Europe with counterfeit goods can lead to big trouble. In Germany, the laws against counterfeiting are very strict.
The Trademark Act prohibits the distribution, sale, and possession of counterfeit designer goods. All this is part of the government's fight against counterfeit goods.
Even if you don't sell or give away such things, but keep them at home exclusively for yourself or wear them on the street, you run the risk of being fined. And Germany is not the only country where you can get a large fine for unoriginal items.
Italy
In Italy, for example, the purchase, sale, and possession of counterfeit goods are strictly prohibited. The authorities are especially vigilant in tourist destinations and large cities. Therefore, you should not walk on the streets of Italy with fake sandals or Gucci handbags.
Walking in shorts, swimsuits, and even a very short dress in some Italian cities can also be punishable by a fine, even if it is +35 degrees outside. But buying or selling counterfeit goods is punishable by a fine of €1,000 to €10,000.
France
France also fights against counterfeit goods. The French Intellectual Property Code prohibits the import, sale, and storage of counterfeit goods.
Travelers caught with counterfeit goods may face fines of up to €7,700. Customs officers check luggage at airports and borders.
Spain
Spain also maintains strict laws that apply in tourist areas. Fines for possessing counterfeit goods can reach €3,000. Spanish police and customs officers frequently patrol markets and shopping areas, catching owners of counterfeit products.
There are other fines for clothing in Spain. For example, driving a car in unsafe clothing, such as flip-flops, barefoot, or with a naked torso, will cost a fine of €200.
Walking in beachwear outside the beach will cost €300. Buying counterfeit goods on street markets will cost up to €20,000.
Switzerland
There is a similar law in Switzerland. The country has a federal law on trademark protection and source indication applies to the import and storage of counterfeit goods.
If a tourist or local resident is found to own counterfeit goods, he or she can be fined up to €2,600.
Swiss customs officers also carefully check borders and airports - transporting counterfeit designer goods can cost $12,000-13,000 in fines.
Tourists and travelers should follow simple rules - avoid buying and wearing counterfeit goods - to avoid such fines.
"To avoid these fines, it is essential to understand and follow the laws of each country you visit. Always buy authentic goods, keep your receipts, and be aware of the regulations to ensure a trouble-free trip," experts advise.
Check out also Europe's friendliest cities to visit in 2024.
