Hong Kong authorities uncovered 23 cross-boundary and transshipment counterfeiting cases in a joint operation with mainland China and Macau in April, seizing about 46,000 items worth an estimated HK$16 million (US$2 million).

The Customs and Excise Department said on Friday that the operation found that 21 cases involved local express couriers and logistics companies.

The remaining two cases involved batches of counterfeit goods discovered on two inbound lorries at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, leading to the arrest of two drivers.

The drivers, aged 48 and 52, were released on bail pending further investigation.

Customs said inspections in Hong Kong, the mainland and Macau had been stepped up to combat cross-boundary trade of counterfeit goods.

“Hong Kong customs will continue to work closely with the Mainland customs, Macau customs and overseas law enforcement agencies to vigorously combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods transhipping activities through intelligence exchanges and joint enforcement actions,” it said.