HK customs seized counterfeit cosmetics
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Hong Kong Customs has seized more than 1300 items of suspected counterfeit cosmetics after raids on three sites this week. In an anti-counterfeiting operation conducted with the assistance of the trademark owners, customs officers took enforcement action at four dispensaries, five medicine stores and a warehouse. The raids took place in Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok and Sheung Shui.
The suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products have an estimated market value of about $73,000 and included soothing gel, eyebrow pencils and face powder.
Eight men and five women were arrested, including seven shop owners and six salespersons, aged from 19 to 60. They have all been released on bail as investigations continue.
In a statement, Hong Kong Customs said it has been carrying out stringent enforcement against the sale of infringing goods and will continue to step up patrols and enforcement actions against infringing activities during the Christmas season.
“Customs reminds consumers to procure goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.”
Retailers were warned to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal liability.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with a forged trademark commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific types of businesses were targeted in the customs operation?
Which specific types of businesses were targeted in the customs operation?
Customs officers took enforcement action at four dispensaries, five medicine stores, and one warehouse. The raids were conducted in Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, and Sheung Shui.
Q.What is the estimated street value of the counterfeit products seized by Hong Kong Customs?
What is the estimated street value of the counterfeit products seized by Hong Kong Customs?
The seized suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products, which included items like soothing gel and eyebrow pencils, have an estimated market value of about $73,000.
Q.What is the maximum penalty for selling goods with a forged trademark under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance?
What is the maximum penalty for selling goods with a forged trademark under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance?
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, offenders face a maximum penalty of a $500,000 fine and five years' imprisonment upon conviction for selling or possessing forged trademark goods.
Q.How many individuals were arrested during the operation and have they been released?
How many individuals were arrested during the operation and have they been released?
Eight men and five women, including seven shop owners and six salespersons aged 19 to 60, were arrested. All of them have since been released on bail as investigations continue.
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