OLAF has identified a route through which over 200,000 counterfeit condoms have reached Europe

OLAF has identified and analyzed a cross-border route used for distributing over 200,000 counterfeit condoms in Europe, sold under the name and logo of a well-known brand. The European Anti-Fraud Office states that the fake products did not meet European quality and safety requirements and could expose consumers to real health risks.

In short

OLAF tracked a trafficking route for over 200,000 counterfeit condoms. The fake products were found in Romania, Serbia, and Spain. OLAF states that the condoms originated from a common source in China. The shipments had been falsely declared as toys. The products could expose consumers to sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, and unsafe materials.

The investigation started from information received from national authorities. OLAF analyzed its own databases and information from open sources, then compared the confiscated products in Romania, Serbia, and Spain together with national customs authorities.

The analysis showed that the counterfeit products came from a common source in China. In cooperation with Chinese authorities, OLAF identified the exporter behind the shipments. According to the agency, the goods had been falsely declared as toys, apparently to avoid checks by national authorities.

In Europe, condoms are classified as medical devices. To enter the EU market, they must meet health and safety standards, have CE certification, and comply with standards such as ISO 4074, which checks whether the product is safe and effective.

OLAF states that the investigation disrupted a significant flow of condoms that did not meet European quality requirements. Among the mentioned checks are those regarding microbial contamination, biocompatibility, leakage testing, dimensions, shelf life, and product stability.

The risk to consumers was not only commercial but also medical. Counterfeit condoms may not effectively protect against sexually transmitted infections and may increase the risk of unwanted pregnancies. OLAF also warns about exposure to chemicals or unsafe materials.

The Director General of OLAF, Petr Klement, stated that counterfeit condoms are dangerous because they are untested, uncontrolled, and unsafe.

"Counterfeit condoms are dangerous. They are untested, uncontrolled and unsafe. They can allow for the spread of sexually transmitted infections. That is why OLAF targeted the networks behind this illicit trade," said Petr Klement.

The original market value of the counterfeit condoms was estimated at over 200,000 euros. The products used the name and logo of a well-known brand, which could make it more difficult for consumers to realize that they are not buying an authentic product.

The case shows why counterfeit medical products are more dangerous than simple commercial fakes. In the case of condoms, the issue is not limited to the infringement of intellectual property rights or losses for companies. A product that seems authentic but has not been tested can directly affect the health of the person using it.

OLAF states that it will continue to work with national authorities, rights holders, and international partners to identify new threats and disrupt illicit supply chains of counterfeit products.

The European Anti-Fraud Office announced the case on July 7, 2026. OLAF investigates fraud, corruption, and other crimes that affect the financial interests of the European Union, including in the area of EU revenues, such as customs duties.