Hong Kong Customs conducted an operation on August 25 in Sheung Shui to combat shops suspected of selling counterfeit mooncakes and egg rolls. A total of 20 boxes of suspected counterfeit mooncakes and 36 boxes of suspected counterfeit egg rolls valued at about $4,100 were seized.
Customs received information earlier concerning the selling of suspected counterfeit mooncakes by retail shops in the market. Upon investigation, Customs conducted enforcement actions in Sheung Shui on August 25. In the operation, two retail shops were raided and a total of 20 boxes of suspected counterfeit mooncakes and 36 boxes of suspected counterfeit egg rolls valued at about $4,100 were seized. Three men, including two salespersons and the director of the shops, aged between 32 and 38, were arrested. The arrested persons were released on bail pending further investigation. Investigation is ongoing.
The Head of the Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau, Ms Catherine Yip, today (August 27) said that Customs has been conducting stringent enforcement actions against the sale of counterfeit goods. Moreover, Customs will enhance patrols and suppress sales of counterfeit food items and goods relating to the Mid-Autumn Festival during the festive period.
She appealed to consumers to purchase at shops with good reputations and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agencies if the authenticity of products is in doubt. She also reminded traders to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since selling counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, it is an offence to sell or possess for sale any goods with forged trademark. Upon conviction, offenders shall be liable to a maximum penalty of imprisonment for five years and a fine of $500,000.
Anyone with information related to selling of suspected infringing goods may call Customs via the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Saturday, August 27, 2016