Hong Kong Customs combats sale of counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 19) conducted an anti-counterfeiting operation to combat the sale of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products. A total of about 1 300 pieces of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products with an estimated market value of about $73,000 were seized.

     Customs earlier received information alleging the sale of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products in shops. After an in-depth investigation with the assistance of trademark owners, Customs officers took enforcement action in Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok and Sheung Shui yesterday and raided four dispensaries, five medicine stores and a warehouse. A total of about 1 300 pieces of suspected counterfeit cosmetics and skin care products, including soothing gel, eyebrow pencils and face powder, with an estimated market value of about $73,000, were seized. Eight men and five women were arrested, including seven shop owners and six salespersons, aged from 19 to 60.

     Investigation is ongoing and all arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation.

     Customs has been carrying out stringent enforcement against the sale of infringing goods and will continue to step up patrols and enforcement actions against infringing activities during the Christmas season.

     Customs reminds consumers to procure goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.

     Customs also reminds traders to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal liability.

     Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with a forged trademark 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 infringing activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182, or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).