Hong Kong Customs conducted a targeted operation in September and October to combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods destined for the European Union (EU) member states. A total of about 8 100 items of suspected counterfeit goods with an estimated market value of about $1.25 million were seized.
Hong Kong Customs has been working closely with relevant customs administrations of EU member states to exchange intelligence and formulate enforcement strategies for combating cross-border counterfeiting activities under the EU-Hong Kong Action Plan. Hong Kong Customs and the EU customs administrations agreed on October 25 to extend the Action Plan to cover sea traffic in addition to air traffic, thereby aiming at combating cross-boundary counterfeit goods activities on various fronts.
During the two-month operation, Hong Kong Customs stepped up inspection of suspicious air express courier parcels destined for the EU member states. A total of about 8 100 items of suspected counterfeit goods, including leather goods, clothing, mobile phones and accessories, watches and shoes, were seized, which effectively curbed cross-boundary counterfeit goods activities.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to work closely with overseas law enforcement agencies to combat cross-boundary counterfeiting activities through intelligence exchanges and joint enforcement actions.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods with any 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 counterfeiting activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, November 4, 2019
