The Taikoo Shing branch of a chain Japanese restaurant was fined $5,000 today (June 1) at Eastern Magistrates' Courts after being convicted for supplying food with a false trade description, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
Acting on information, Customs officers disguised as customers and purchased two set meals from the restaurant on October 13, 2015. The menu stated that each set contained 150 grams of beef. Upon examination by the Government Laboratory, it was confirmed that the weights of beef for the two sets were 94.9g and 97.4g respectively, different from the trade description stipulated on the menu.
The Customs and Excise Department reminded traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO. The Department will continue to crack down on the supply of goods with false trade descriptions for protecting consumer interests.
Under the TDO, any person who imports or supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or who 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, June 1, 2016