Two importers who illegally imported hazardous electronic waste (e-waste) from the United Arab Emirates and the United States were convicted and fined a total of $28,000 by the Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (May 23) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

     In collaboration with the Customs and Excise Department, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) intercepted two imported containers at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals in October last year and found hazardous e-waste such as waste flat panel displays, waste batteries, waste printed circuit boards and waste toner cartridges inside them. They were intended for transshipment to the Mainland. These two containers were immediately returned to the states of origin after interception and the EPD also notified the relevant local enforcement authorities.

     The EPD spokesman reiterated that the intercepted hazardous e-waste contained heavy metals (such as mercury, lead and nickel) and other toxic chemicals. Improper handling of such waste can cause harm to the environment and public health. The EPD strictly controls the import and export of hazardous waste according to the WDO and is committed to combating the illegal import of hazardous waste into Hong Kong. All illegally imported containers that are intercepted will be returned to the states of origin following international practice and the offenders will be prosecuted.

     The spokesman reminded importers of the waste recycling trade not to illegally import hazardous e-waste into Hong Kong for whatever purpose, including local trading or transshipment. In accordance with the WDO, it is an offence for anyone to import (including transshipment) or export hazardous e-waste without valid permits. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. Repeated offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and two years' imprisonment.

Ends/Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:10

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