Main points
- In Cherkasy and Mykolaiv regions, a scheme for the production of counterfeit agrochemicals was exposed, which had been operating for at least a year.
- Law enforcement officers seized over 1,000 containers of counterfeit goods and reported the suspicion to six participants in the scheme.
Counterfeiting of agricultural chemicals / Photo: Prosecutor General's Office
A large-scale scheme for the production of counterfeit agrochemicals was exposed in Cherkasy and Mykolaiv regions. Counterfeit pesticides were sold under the guise of well-known world brands, and even cement could be added to the composition.
Counterfeit agrochemicals disguised as well-known brands
Law enforcement officers have disrupted the activities of organized groups that had established the production and sale of counterfeit plant protection products throughout Ukraine, the Prosecutor General's Office reported. These include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and other pesticides that were manufactured in clandestine conditions.
The scheme operated for at least a year and was documented since May 2025. The products were manufactured in specially equipped premises and sold to order, disguising them as well-known international brands, including CORTEVA.
To create the illusion of original products, the attackers used used containers that they bought from farmers. At the same time, the contents of the containers did not match the declared composition. According to the investigation, cement and other dangerous components that pose a threat to soils, crops, and the environment could be added to the mixtures.
Searches, seizures and suspicions against the organizers
The counterfeit was sold to agricultural enterprises and private buyers throughout Ukraine. Sales were made via the Internet, in particular via messengers and online platforms, and delivery was made via postal services or during personal meetings.
On March 31, 2026, law enforcement officers conducted 15 searches in Cherkasy and Mykolaiv regions. As a result, more than 1,000 containers with counterfeit products, about 6,500 liters of counterfeit products, equipment, chemicals, printing, packaging, and cash were seized.
Six participants in the scheme have already been notified of suspicion of illegal use of trademarks for goods and services by an organized group. The investigation is ongoing.
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