Hong Kong Customs yesterday (September 21) conducted a territory-wide operation to combat retail shops selling suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products. A total of 755 items of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products with an estimated market value of about $100,000 were seized.
Customs, together with trademark owners, conducted patrols in various districts in Hong Kong earlier and found that suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products were being sold in retail shops. After investigation, Customs officers conducted enforcement actions in various districts of Hong Kong yesterday. During the operation, six retail shops in Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok and Sheung Shui were raided and a total of 755 items of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products with an estimated market value of about $100,000 were seized, including sunscreen, cleansing foam, make-up remover, facial masks, essence and face powder. Eight men and one woman were arrested, including five shop owners and four salespersons, aged between 22 and 48. All arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation. Investigation is ongoing.
The Divisional Commander (Intellectual Property General Investigation) of Customs, Ms Peggy Tam, said at a press conference today (September 22) that Customs had been carrying out stringent enforcement actions against the sale of counterfeit goods. During the National Day holidays, Customs will continue conducting patrols with trademark owners to step up enforcement action against counterfeiting activities.
Customs appeals to consumers to procure items 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 sanctions.
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.
Ends/Friday, September 22, 2017