Hong Kong Customs today (April 17) arrested a salesman of a ginseng and dried seafood shop suspected to have applied a false trade description in the sale of dried Panax quinquefolius and Silybum marianum, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
Customs earlier received information alleging that a salesman of a ginseng and dried seafood shop in Yau Ma Tei claimed that the unit prices of dried Panax quinquefolius and Silybum marianum were calculated per catty. After the goods were sliced and ground, the salesman revealed that the dried Panax quinquefolius and the Silybum marianum were priced per tael and mace respectively.
After investigation, Customs officers today arrested a man aged 41.
Investigation is ongoing and the arrested man has been released on bail pending further investigation.
Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to purchase products from reputable shops. Consumers should also be cautious about the unit price and ask for more information, including the total price of the goods selected, before making a purchase decision.
Under the TDO, any trader who applies a false trade description to any goods, or supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, 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 violations of the TDO to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Tuesday, April 17, 2018