Hong Kong Customs cracked down on various wholesale and retail outlets involved in the sale of suspected infringing lanterns over the past three weeks and seized more than 690 suspected infringing lanterns.
Acting on information provided by a copyright owner and the public, Customs conducted a series of strike-and-search operations in various districts in Hong Kong over the past three weeks. More than 690 suspected infringing lanterns valued at about $41,000 were seized and four men and eight women were arrested. They have been released on bail pending further investigation.
The Group Head of the Intellectual Property Investigation (Operations) Group, Mr Wong Yim-pui, said today (September 25) that Customs would continue to take stringent enforcement action to combat infringing activities. Members of the public are advised to purchase at shops with good reputations. He also reminded traders that sale of infringing and counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Copyright Ordinance, it is an offence to sell or possess for sale infringing items. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum punishment of imprisonment for four years and a fine of $50,000 for each infringing copy.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, it is an offence to sell or possess for sale any goods with any forged trademark. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum punishment of imprisonment for five years and a fine of $500,000.
Anyone with information relating to suspected infringing activities may call Customs via the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Friday, September 25, 2015