Hong Kong Customs seizes melons with suspected false origin (with photo)

Date: 25/01/2018

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (January 24) seized 68 melons with a suspected false claim of origin and an estimated market value of about $1,775 from three fruit retailers in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po.

Customs earlier received information alleging that fruit retailers in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po areas sold a type of melon with a suspected false claim of origin bearing "Hokkaido" and "greenhouse" markings.

Customs investigations revealed that the retail price of the fruit was greatly lower than it is for those of Japanese origin.

Test-buy operations were conducted yesterday and melons with a suspected false claim of origin were seized from three retailers. Two female shopkeepers and one male shopkeeper, aged between 47 and 59, were arrested.

Investigation is ongoing and inspections will continue.

Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO). False or misleading claims on origin of goods may constitute an offence under the TDO. Consumers are advised to procure goods at reputable shops.

Under the TDO, any person who supplies goods with a false trade description in the course of trade or business, or is in possession of any goods for sale with a false trade description, 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 violation of the TDO to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (January 24) seized 68 melons with a suspected false claim of origin and an estimated market value of about $1,775 from three fruit retailers in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po. Photo shows some of the melons seized.

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