HONG KONG: Hong Kong Customs today (November 21) arrested a 40-year-old saleswoman suspected of engaging in unfair trade practices by applying a false trade description on a proprietary medicine, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
Customs officers conducted a test-buy operation at a dispensary in Kwun Tong this afternoon. A saleswoman was suspected to have applied a false trade description on a brand of medicine by stating it was another brand of proprietary medicine. Upon investigation, Customs officers arrested the saleswoman. She was charged for contravention of the TDO and will appear at Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (November 22).
Customs reminded traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to purchase products from reputable shops. Consumers are reminded to have a clear knowledge of the product details and keep the invoices and receipts for future reference.
Under the TDO, trade descriptions can be applied by whatever means including oral and written statements. Any person who in the course of any trade or business applies a false trade description to any goods or services 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 the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
