Romanian authorities seize 1,000 litres of counterfeit pesticides valued over €600 000 thanks to OLAF’s intelligence

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) provided the Romanian authorities with specialised intelligence that led to the successful interception of a significant consignment of illegal counterfeit pesticides being smuggled from Eastern Europe into Romania. The shipment of 1,000 litres of counterfeit crop protection products manufactured outside the European Union was valued at over €600,000.

The operation, led by the Bihor County Police Inspectorate and the Economic Crimes Investigation Department of the Romanian Police, resulted in the arrest of two Ukrainian nationals suspected of involvement in the illicit trafficking. The individuals are now under investigation for their alleged roles in the illegal importation and distribution of these counterfeit goods.

This seizure followed a tip-off from OLAF, which has been actively sharing intelligence on the international trafficking of illegal and counterfeit crop protection products from non-EU countries to the European Union. OLAF continues to work closely with the Romanian authorities to follow up on this case. 

OLAF is committed to tackling cross-border crime and protecting the European Union from the dangers posed by counterfeit products. Counterfeit pesticides represent a serious threat to both the European market and the environment. These unregulated products often fail to meet proper safety standards, putting crops and farmers at risk, while also undermining legitimate businesses.