Officers from the Department of Special Investigation check store shelves containing handbags and fashion accessories suspected of violating trademark rights during a raid at MBK Center. Image: Department of Special Investigation (DSI)
BANGKOK: Thai authorities have seized more than 100,000 counterfeit branded products worth an estimated 30 million baht in a raid at Bangkok’s MBK Center shopping mall, popular with tourists. The action is part of strengthened measures against infringements of intellectual property rights.
According to Oramon Sapthaweetham, Director General of the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), the operation was carried out in connection with the release of the Office of the US Trade Representative’s latest “Notorious Markets” report. The report lists markets around the world where products that violate trademark and copyright laws are particularly traded. In total, the report names 37 online marketplaces and 32 physical markets in 19 countries. The MBK Center was listed as the only physical store in Thailand due to a high volume of counterfeit products. Previously, the Pantip Plaza shopping center in particular had this reputation for years, and has since been repositioned as the “Phenix Food Wholesale Hub”.
Raid on 17 stores in MBK Center
DIP officers, together with investigators from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), carried out checks at 17 stores and suspected storage rooms within the MBK Center on Thursday (March 12, 2026). Investigators seized large quantities of counterfeit goods, including handbags, shoes, clothing and fashion accessories that imitated well-known international brands. The brands affected include Christian Dior, Nike, Adidas, Gucci, Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Investigators from the Department of Special Investigation document suspected counterfeit sports shoes from international brands during checks at the MBK Center. Image: Department of Special Investigation (DSI)
According to investigators, several suspects were arrested. In total, authorities seized more than 100,000 counterfeit products, with a market value estimated at around 30 million baht. The evidence seized is currently being evaluated for further criminal action.
MBK wants to terminate contracts with dealers
The management of the MBK Center cooperated with the investigators and promised to immediately terminate rental contracts with dealers who were caught selling counterfeit goods, Oramon explained.
During the raid on the MBK Center, investigators also seized household goods that were said to imitate well-known luxury brands. Image: Department of Special Investigation (DSI)
