It is estimated counterfeit goods from countries such as China cost legitimate businesses in Europe tens of billions of dollars each year.

European customs officials seized 178 million fake items in 2008- more than double the previous year.

But people returning from their holidays with fake goods could soon be looking at large fines- up to $14,000 in Italy, and up to $425,000 in France.

Though experts say the new warnings are unlikely to be applied in every case - they are an indication of attempts to arrest a growing trend.

Nadim Baba reports on the proliferation of fake goods and the increasing role of organised crime behind counterfeiting.