A shopkeeper was fined $4,000 today (January 5) at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts for supplying rechargeable lithium batteries with a false trade description, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).

     Acting on information, Hong Kong Customs conducted a test-buy operation and purchased 10 rechargeable lithium batteries with power capacity marked as 4,000mAh from a shop in May 2016. Upon examination by the laboratory, it was confirmed that the battery capacity ranged from 457mAh to 483mAh, different from the capacity marked.

     Customs reminded traders to comply with requirements of the TDO and consumers to procure products at reputable shops.

     Under the TDO, any person who supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or has in his possession any goods for sale with a false trade description, 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/Thursday, January 5, 2017
Issued at HKT 13:07

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