Portsmouth Trading Standards has secured a prestigious national accolade for its efforts in combating the illegal counterfeit goods trade.
The compact Portsmouth City Council unit has confiscated tens of thousands of pounds worth of illicit tobacco merchandise during individual operations, removing counterfeit and dangerous cigarettes, tobacco, and vapes from criminal enterprises.
Warehouses packed with substantial quantities of fake branded apparel and electronic items incorrectly marked as renowned brands were also discovered and prevented from reaching online markets.
This achievement resulted in Portsmouth being named Team Commendation Winners at the prestigious ACG Enforcement Awards 2025, which celebrates outstanding work in stopping criminals from distributing fake products throughout the UK.
Councillor Lee Hunt, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure, and Sport, commented:
“Enormous congratulations to our Trading Standards team for this truly remarkable recognition. They competed against significantly larger enforcement units but succeeded through their thoroughness, commitment and expertise.
“Whilst selling counterfeit, inexpensive products may appear innocuous, the reality is these items are uncontrolled and dangerous to consumers. Operating behind the scenes are frequently substantial criminal organisations that exploit individuals of all ages, including youngsters.
“Due to our Trading Standards team, criminal enterprises are being disrupted throughout the city and those responsible are being brought to justice.
“The illegal trade in fake products is expanding nationwide, therefore we encourage people to thoughtfully consider their purchases, who benefits, and the human impact of manufacturing cheap goods.”
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Surprise inspections of retailers across Portsmouth continue to generate substantial penalties and prosecutions. The most recent case involved Fratton Food Store proprietors being ordered to pay more than £27,000 or face imprisonment for supplying 45,000 counterfeit cigarettes.
Residents are strongly discouraged from buying items they suspect may be fraudulent, whether purchased in-person or online. Guidance on identifying fake products online can be found on ACG’s website.
To report suspected counterfeit goods:
- Citizens Advice: Report fake or counterfeit goods
- Action Fraud: Counterfeit goods fraud reporting
- Email Portsmouth Trading Standards: trading.standards@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
