Hong Kong Customs conducted spot check operations in Sham Shui Po in the past two weeks, and ordered five retailers to store 249 suspected unsafe "ani-com weapon" toys in specified places.
During the operations, Customs officers found that the suspected unsafe toys, in the shapes of knuckles, sectioned whip, single-edged sword and sword, were not attached with any identification markings (the full name and the address of the manufacturer, the importer or the supplier) and/or applicable bilingual warnings or cautions (with respect to the safekeeping, use, consumption or disposal). The toys were suspected of having contravened the Toys and Children's Products Safety Ordinance (TCPSO) and its subsidiary legislation.
Customs will arrange safety tests of the toys.
Customs will continue its operation and conduct spot checks at 2017 – 19th Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong which started today (July 28) to make sure that exhibitors comply with the requirements of the TCPSO for the sake of consumers' safety.
Customs advises parents and teenagers to purchase toys with care. They should be aware of toys that contain sharp edges and points, as well as small and removable parts. They should take heed of the warnings and the usage instructions on the toys. Customs also reminds teenagers to use toys with extra care and parents to ensure their children's safety when using toys to avoid causing bodily harm.
Under the TCPSO, it is an offence to import, manufacture or supply toys for local consumption unless the toys comply with prescribed safety standards. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on first conviction, and a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for two years on subsequent conviction.
Members of the public with information relating to suspected unsafe toys or children's products may call the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182, or write to the Consumer Protection Bureau, Customs and Excise Department, 14/F, Customs Headquarters Building, 222 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong.
Ends/Friday, July 28, 2017
