Hong Kong Customs seized 4 608 cans of cookies bearing a suspected false origin marking with an estimated market value of about $320,000 at Man Kam To Control Point on September 29.
Customs officers intercepted an incoming lorry at Man Kam To Control Point for inspection on the morning of September 29 and seized the cookies, which bore a Hong Kong origin, from the cargo compartment.
Initial investigations revealed that the cookies are not of Hong Kong origin. The seized cookies have been sent to the Government Laboratory for safety testing.
The cookies under investigation have not yet been found available for sale at retail shops.
A 59-year-old male driver was arrested. Investigation is ongoing.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO), a person must not import any goods to which a false trade description is applied. In addition, it is an offence for a trader to apply a false trade description to goods or services supplied or offered to be supplied to a consumer; or to supply or offer to supply to a consumer goods or services to which a false trade description is applied. Violation of the TDO is a serious offence and offenders are liable to a maximum penalty of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years upon conviction.
Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to procure services at reputable shops.
Members of the public may report any suspected violations of the TDO to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, October 4, 2017
