Hong Kong Customs today (January 17) conducted an operation to combat the sale of counterfeit health product drink. A total of about 250 boxes of suspected counterfeit health product drink and 100 pieces of other suspected counterfeit goods including proprietary Chinese medicines and skin care products with an estimated market value of about $25,000 were seized.
Customs earlier received information alleging the sale of suspected counterfeit health product drink at shops in the retail market. After an in-depth investigation with the assistance of trademark owner, Customs officers today raided 7 shops in Mong Kok, Tuen Mun, Tai Po and Sheung Shui and seized the batch of suspected counterfeit goods.
During the operation, nine men and two women were arrested, including three persons-in-charge and eight salespersons, aged between 23 and 49.
Investigations are ongoing.
Customs will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to combat the sale of counterfeit goods.
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.
Customs also reminds traders 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.
Members of the public may report any suspected infringing activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Thursday, January 17, 2019
