Hong Kong Customs combats sale of counterfeit toys (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs conducted an operation yesterday (December 12) to combat the sale of suspected counterfeit toys. A total of about 1 000 items of suspected counterfeit goods, including board games, children's dolls and stickers, with an estimated market value of about $30,000 were seized.

     Customs earlier received information alleging that suspected counterfeit toys were being sold by shops in the retail market. After an in-depth investigation with the assistance of trademark owners, Customs officers took enforcement action yesterday and raided six retail shops in Sham Shui Po. A total of about 1 000 items of suspected counterfeit goods including board games, children's dolls and stickers were seized.

     During the operation, eight women were arrested, including two persons-in-charge and six salespersons aged between 26 and 53.

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

     Customs will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to combat the sale of counterfeit goods.

     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).