WHAT HAPPENED
Vietnam, long a key manufacturing and trading hub in Southeast Asia, is once again demonstrating its resolve in combating the illegal trade of counterfeit goods. Recent large-scale raids conducted by Ho Chi Minh City authorities have shaken the market, uncovering significant volumes of fake products bearing the marks of renowned global brands such as Gucci and Ray-Ban. Seizures impacted two major downtown shopping centers – Saigon Square, popular with tourists and locals, and the legendary Ben Thanh Market.
These events are not merely isolated incidents but a clear signal of a concerted nationwide effort to intensify anti-counterfeiting measures. Law enforcement's focus extended beyond luxury bags and eyewear to include fake watches, clothing, and other accessories mimicking leading global manufacturers. The scale of the seizures and the choice of such prominent locations underscore the seriousness of the Vietnamese government's intent to protect intellectual property and combat the shadow market.
For many, this might seem like local news. However, in the context of global supply chains and Vietnam's growing influence in world trade, such actions have far-reaching consequences. They affect not only local traders but also all international players whose business interests are in some way connected to the Vietnamese market, including the dynamically developing Russian e-commerce sector.
WHAT THIS MEANS
For Russian entrepreneurs actively growing their online stores and sourcing goods from Vietnam, the intensification of anti-counterfeiting measures presents a twofold challenge. On one hand, it's an opportunity to clear the market of unscrupulous competitors offering counterfeit goods at dumping prices. On the other, it poses a serious risk for those who, out of ignorance, oversight, or in pursuit of low prices, have dealt with suppliers of questionable products.
First and foremost, this concerns **supply chains**. Many Russian e-commerce players rely on established channels that may have formed over years and included intermediaries who supplied goods without proper authenticity checks. Now, these channels are under threat. Product seizures, customs delays, and investigations — all can lead to supply disruptions, financial losses, and damage to business reputation. Entrepreneurs will have to revise their logistics strategies, strengthen control at all stages of procurement and delivery, and possibly seek new, more reliable, and transparent suppliers.
**Legal risks** are significantly increasing. The purchase, and especially the sale, of counterfeit products, even if the entrepreneur was unaware of their falseness, can have serious consequences. Vietnamese law provides for severe penalties for intellectual property rights infringement, including substantial fines and criminal liability. Similar risks exist in Russia, where the circulation of counterfeits is also punishable by law. If fakes are discovered in Russia, an entrepreneur risks not only product confiscation and fines but also criminal prosecution, which can completely destroy a business and undermine personal reputation.
Finally, **reputational risks** should not be underestimated. In today's world, where information spreads instantly, any incident related to selling fakes can cause irreparable damage to an online store's image. Consumers increasingly value authenticity and transparency, and losing customer trust due to a single batch of counterfeit goods can lead to a long-term decline in sales and the collapse of a brand built over years. This is especially relevant for e-commerce, where reputation is built on reviews and recommendations.
VIETSMART EXPERT COMMENTARY
In light of recent events, Russian e-commerce must recognize that the era of “grey” schemes and purchasing goods from unverified suppliers in Vietnam is coming to an end. It's time for a strategic re-evaluation of the approach to assortment formation and supply chain establishment. The key factors are now not just price, but also guaranteed product authenticity and the legal integrity of all transactions. A proactive approach to verifying suppliers and goods is no longer just a recommendation; it's a critical element for sustainable business development.
At VietSmart, we urge entrepreneurs not to wait until the problem directly affects them. It is essential to actively invest in comprehensive supplier verification, requesting all necessary certificates and licenses that confirm the legality and originality of products. It's important not only to possess these documents but also to be confident in their authenticity. In case of any doubts, it's better to decline a transaction than to risk your entire business. This is an investment in the long-term stability and reputation of your enterprise.
KEY TAKEAWAYS AND NEXT STEPS
The intensification of the fight against counterfeits in Vietnam demands immediate and decisive action from Russian e-commerce entrepreneurs. To secure your business and ensure its sustainable growth, we recommend the following steps:
- Thorough Supplier Verification: Never rely on verbal agreements or unverified sources. Request all registration documents, business licenses, product conformity certificates, and documents proving the legal use of trademarks from your Vietnamese partners. Verify their authenticity through official channels or with the help of independent auditors.
- Legal Review of Contracts: Conclude formal contracts with suppliers, clearly stipulating responsibility for the quality and authenticity of the supplied goods. Include clauses on compensation for damages in case of counterfeit discovery and guarantees of compliance with local and international intellectual property laws. It is recommended to engage lawyers specializing in international trade law.
- Diversification and Building Transparent Supply Chains: Minimize risks by not relying solely on one or two suppliers. Explore new supply channels, cooperate directly with manufacturers or their official distributors. Utilize technologies for tracking product origin, such as blockchain solutions or QR codes, to ensure full transparency at all stages.
- Invest in Authentication Systems: Consider using third-party services to verify product authenticity before shipment from Vietnam. These could be independent inspection companies or specialized laboratories. Implementing such systems will help identify and filter out substandard products in a timely manner.
- Continuous Training and Monitoring: Stay informed about changes in Vietnamese and Russian legislation regarding intellectual property and e-commerce regulation. Regularly conduct training for your team on identifying counterfeits and working with reliable suppliers. Monitoring news and analytical reports from the region will help you respond promptly to changes in market conditions.
Source: VnExpress International — Business, May 16, 2026