Hong Kong Customs combats unfair trade practices at ginseng and dried seafood shop

     Hong Kong Customs today (September 25) arrested one male salesperson of a ginseng and dried seafood shop suspected to have applied a false trade description in the sale of American ginseng, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).

     Customs earlier received information alleging that a salesperson of a ginseng and dried seafood shop in Mong Kok claimed that American ginseng was priced per catty. After the goods were sliced, the salesperson revealed that the American ginseng was priced per tael. The price was 16 times different from what was expected.

     After investigation, Customs officers today arrested a 26-year-old man.

     Investigation is ongoing and the arrested man has been released on bail pending further investigation.

     Customs will continue to step up inspection and enforcement for consumer protection in the forthcoming National Day Golden Week.

     Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to purchase products from reputable shops. Consumers should also be cautious about the unit price and ask for more information, including the total price of the goods selected, before making a purchase decision.

     Under the TDO, any person who in the course of any trade or business applies a false trade description to any goods 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 Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).