Question 1

What is the "Fake Goods Market at Zhanxi Road" scam in Guangzhou?

Accepted Answer

The area around Zhanxi Road near Guangzhou Railway Station is infamous for counterfeit goods — fake branded clothing, electronics, watches, and accessories sold openly. Sellers may claim goods are genuine exports or factory overruns. Quality is poor, items frequently malfunction, and purchasing counterfeit goods is illegal in most home countries. Avoid purchasing any branded goods in this district. If you want local goods, visit legitimate shopping centers in Tianhe. Be aware that importing counterfeit goods can result in customs confiscation and fines.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit Luxury Goods Sold as Genuine" scam in Guangzhou?

Accepted Answer

Sellers in Guangzhou's informal markets and some canal-district shops present counterfeit watches, handbags, and electronics as genuine branded products or as "factory seconds" with minor defects. The city's manufacturing base gives sellers a credible story about direct factory access. Items are convincingly packaged but are fakes that carry import risk when taken home. Never purchase luxury goods in informal markets regardless of the sales story. Genuine branded goods are not sold through street vendors or back-room shops. Be aware that customs officers in many countries confiscate counterfeit goods at the border.

Question 3

What is the "Art Student Commission Shop Scam" scam in Guangzhou?

Accepted Answer

Young people claiming to be art students at a Guangzhou art academy approach tourists near Shamian Island or the Canton Fair Exhibition Center, showing a portfolio and inviting visitors to an art show or gallery nearby. The gallery sells low-quality prints at vastly inflated prices, and the student receives a commission. Significant social pressure is applied during the sales pitch. Politely decline any invitation from a stranger to visit an art show or gallery. If you want local art, visit established galleries with published prices at the Guangdong Museum of Art or reputable shops in Tianhe district.

Street Scams in Guangzhou

Fake Goods Market at Zhanxi Road

Counterfeit Luxury Goods Sold as Genuine

Art Student Commission Shop Scam

Experienced a scam here?