A company operating an online shop today (November 12) pleaded guilty at the Kowloon City Magistrates' Courts to possessing and supplying pest repellers and pillows with false trade descriptions for sale. The company in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO) was fined $8,000 for the offences.
Acting on information, Customs officers test-purchased 11 ultrasonic pest repellers and two pillows with down filling from an online shop for authentication tests in September last year and February this year. The test results revealed that the sound frequency of the pest repellers was about 50 hertz, which did not reach the level of ultrasonic frequency, and the filling of the pillows was 100 per cent polyester rather than down as advertised on its website. Customs officers took enforcement action and seized a total of 198 pest repellers from the company.
Customs reminded traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and ensure that website advertisements carry accurate information about products for sale. The Department will continue to crack down on the supply of goods with false trade descriptions to protect consumer interests.
A Customs spokesperson said that online shopping was getting more popular but with certain risks. The spokesperson urged consumers to stay alert when shopping online, to patronise shops with a good reputation and make reference to the experience of other consumers. They should ask for more information from the trader if in doubt.
Under the TDO, any person who supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or that has in his possession for sale any goods with a false trade description, commits a criminal 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 violations of the TDO to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, November 12, 2014
