*********************************************************
Hong Kong Customs conducted a territory-wide operation between June 16 and 19 to combat retail shops selling suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products. More than 1 000 pieces of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products were seized.
Customs received information earlier concerning the selling of suspected counterfeit cosmetics by retail shops in the market. Upon in-depth investigation, Customs conducted enforcement actions in various districts of Hong Kong between June 16 and 19. During the operation, six shops were raided and a total of 1 011 pieces of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products with a total value of about $24,000 were seized, including face powder, brow liner and moisturizer. Seven persons, including six salespersons and a shop owner aged between 22 and 47, were arrested. The arrested persons were released on bail pending further investigation. The investigation is still ongoing.
The Head of Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau, Ms Catherine Yip, today (June 20) said that Customs would continue taking stringent enforcement actions against the sale of counterfeit goods activities. She appealed to consumers to purchase at shops that have a good reputation and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agencies if authenticity of the product was in doubt. Also, she reminded traders to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since selling counterfeit goods was a serious crime and 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/Monday, June 20, 2016
Issued at HKT 12:30
NNNN
