Hong Kong Customs seized a total of 72 golden peaches with a suspected false claim of origin from two fruit retailers in Ma On Shan and Mong Kok on August 24 and today (August 27) respectively with a total estimated market value of about $5,000.
Customs earlier received information alleging fruit retailers had sold a type of golden peach suspected of having a false origin claim with a price tag bearing Japanese golden peach marking.
Customs investigations revealed that the retail price of the fruit was much lower than that imported from Japan.
Customs officers conducted test-buy operations on August 24 and today at two fruit retailers in Ma On Shan and Mong Kok respectively where the golden peaches with suspected false claim of origin were seized. Two male shop owners, aged 63 and 39, and a 39-year-old female salesperson were arrested.
Investigations are ongoing and inspections will continue.
Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO). False or misleading claims on origin of goods may constitute an offence under the TDO. Consumers are advised to procure goods at reputable shops.
Under the TDO, any person who supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or is in possession of any goods for sale with a false trade description, 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 violation of the TDO to the Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, August 27, 2018
