Many shop owners shut down operations when the Domestic Market Management and Development Authority inspects the Saigon Square in HCM City on May 29.
According to officials, the inspection team arrived on the afternoon of May 29. Upon their arrival, Saigon Square’s internal security team reportedly activated a walkie-talkie system and broadcast loudspeaker announcements warning shop owners to shut down operations, hindering the inspection process.
Despite this, inspectors discovered thousands of products bearing logos of high-end brands such as Rolex, Longines, and Patek Philippe watches; and handbags and wallets from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, YSL, Celine, Goyard, Chanel, and Hermès. All items were suspected to be counterfeit.
Inspectors discovered thousands of products bearing logos of high-end brands such as Rolex, Longines, and Patek Philippe watches.
Representatives from IPT Intellectual Property Services Co., Ltd., along with various law firms acting on behalf of trademark holders, were present at the site to help identify infringements.
According to IPT, the authorised representative for major brands such as Rolex, BVLGARI, and Chanel, the majority of items being handled in the raid showed clear signs of trademark infringement. Many products had incorrect packaging, uneven or sloppy stitching, loose threads, and poorly printed or smudged logos. Notably, these items were being sold at prices far below the retail price of authentic goods.
Tran Viet Hung, head of the Market Surveillance Operations Department, said this is one of the most notable cases discovered during a nationwide crackdown on counterfeit and substandard goods.
Inspections at Saigon Square will continue, as it is a central retail hub that attracts large numbers of both domestic and international tourists.
Hung noted that lax local management has led not only to widespread violations but also to a decline in consumer trust and damage to the city’s image. He warned that the counterfeit trade negatively affects the business environment for legitimate enterprises.
