Record Fake Mask Haul Seized

Customs today announced that it seized 330,000 suspected counterfeit medical-grade face masks with an estimated market value of about $8.5 million, its largest haul in terms of both quantity or value.

The department had earlier received information alleging that a batch of suspected counterfeit face masks would be transshipped overseas through Hong Kong.

After an investigation with the assistance of the trademark owner, Customs took enforcement action on January 14 and raided a logistics company in Kwai Chung where the batch of face masks was seized.

Initial investigations revealed that the batch had not entered the local retail market. It was believed that unscrupulous merchants intended to transship the masks overseas for sale and profit.

Customs is looking into the source of the face masks involved in the case. Samples have also been sent to a laboratory for a safety test.

It has conducted a citywide special operation since January 27 last year to conduct spot checks and enforcement operations on common protective items.

Investigations have been conducted against 24 cases of suspected Trade Descriptions Ordinance violations and 13 cases of suspected Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance violations.

Eighty-eight people have been arrested and goods suspected of violating the law including about 6.23 million surgical masks, 317 bottles of disinfectant alcohol and 23 bottles of normal saline have been seized.

To report suspected violations call 2545 6182 or email [email protected].