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Trial of Chinese Crime Gangs in Italian Fashion Stalls Amid Sabotage Fears

A landmark trial in Italy against Chinese crime gangs allegedly controlling Europe’s fashion logistics is floundering due to mishaps and suspected sabotage.

A worker rests in a fast-fashion outlet factory owned by a Chinese company in Prato, central Italy. (Getty Images)

Reuters

11 December 2025

BoF PROFESSIONAL

A landmark trial in Italy of Chinese crime gangs has suffered so many mishaps - from the disappearance of documents to the resignation of interpreters - that a senior prosecutor suspects it’s being sabotaged to protect the criminals’ grip on Europe’s fashion industry.

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In This Article

Topics

Sustainability:Regulation

Location

Prato, Italy

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Trial of Chinese Crime Gangs in Italian Fashion Stalls Amid Sabotage Fears

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Italian Police Seek Governance Documents From 13 Fashion Firms in Labour Abuse Probe

Fashion Is Failing to Protect Garment Workers From Extreme Heat

Amnesty Says Fashion Benefits From Worker Repression

Exclusive: Shein Wants Brands to Use Its Supply Chain. Should They?

Can Fashion Stop Wasting So Much Water?

Fashion Searches For a New Climate Solution

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