Hong Kong Customs combats sale of suspected counterfeit proprietary Chinese medicine (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs conducted a territory-wide operation from October 30 to today (November 1) to combat the sale of suspected counterfeit proprietary Chinese medicines. During the operation, a total of about 700 items of suspected counterfeit proprietary Chinese medicines and other suspected counterfeit products with a total estimated market value of about $70,000 were seized.

     Customs earlier received information alleging that suspected counterfeit proprietary Chinese medicines were being sold by shops in the retail market. After an in-depth investigation with the assistance of trademark owners, Customs officers conducted a three-day operation in different districts in Hong Kong from October 30 to today. Thirteen retail shops in Sheung Wan, Mong Kok, Kwai Hing, Sha Tin, Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Sheung Shui were raided and a total of about 700 items of suspected counterfeit proprietary Chinese medicines and other suspected counterfeit products were seized. 

     During the operation, 20 men and two women were arrested, including eight persons-in-charge and 14 salespersons, aged between 22 and 64. 

     Investigation is ongoing.

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

     Customs 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 sanctions.

     Customs also appeals to 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. 

     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).