Istanbul authorities seize over 4,500 counterfeit perfumes

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) announced that they intensified their efforts to combat counterfeit perfume sales in the city’s historic and tourist districts.

Over the past year, municipal police teams seized 4,555 counterfeit perfumes during a series of inspections.

The operation resulted in administrative fines for 199 individuals, with a total of 3,752 citations issued.

Seized perfumes were transported to authorized storage facilities, and 3,141 of these products have already been destroyed. The destruction process for the remaining 1,414 counterfeit perfumes has been initiated.

Targeting counterfeit perfume sellers in tourist areas

According to the IBB Constabulary Department, counterfeit perfumes often mimic the packaging of globally recognized brands. These imitation products, complete with fake labels and packaging, are sold to tourists and residents, giving the false appearance of authenticity.

Experts warn that counterfeit perfumes, often produced in unregulated conditions, can pose serious health risks when applied to the skin or inhaled.

The ingredients used in these knockoff products are unknown and potentially dangerous.

Health risks posed by counterfeit perfumes highlight need for stronger regulations

The IBB Constabulary Department conducts inspections based on the “Misdemeanors Law” and “Street Hawking Regulations.”

However, officials acknowledge that these measures alone are not enough to fully eliminate the sources of counterfeit production and distribution. Counterfeit perfumes, produced at low cost, are sometimes sold at inflated prices in the streets.

The IBB also urges consumers to verify the authenticity of products through the TUBITAK-developed “Product Tracking System” (UTS), which allows buyers to check the origins of their purchases. They recommend avoiding products from unclear or unverified sources to ensure safety.

Growing threat of counterfeit cosmetics in Türkiye 

Counterfeit cosmetics are a major issue in Türkiye, making up a substantial portion of the market. This is not just an economic concern but a serious public health risk, as fake products often contain harmful chemicals. 

• Market size: The counterfeit cosmetics industry in Türkiye is estimated to be worth around ₺50 billion ($1.47 billion), with 20,000 unlicensed production facilities operating across the country. 
• Health risks: Counterfeit products are often produced in unsanitary conditions, lacking proper sterilization. Dangerous substances like lead, mercury and cyanide have been detected in these products, posing severe health risks. 
• Impact on consumers: The most common issues reported include skin rashes, allergic reactions, and in severe cases, hair loss and permanent skin damage. Long-term exposure to these products can result in organ failure or even cancer.