148 | Commerce and Industry
Enforcement of Consumer Protection Legislation
The Customs and Excise Department carries out spot checks and investigations to ensure that toys, children's products and consumer goods supplied in Hong Kong are safe. It also has responsibilities in protecting consumers from fraudulent traders who offer goods of deceptive weights and measures or products made of gold and platinum that have deceptive markings. In 2004, the department carried out 3 685 spot checks and 1 029 investigations. It also organised talks for traders to promote their awareness of product safety.
The Government Laboratory provides professional support to the Customs and Excise Department in enforcing the product safety legislation. It conducted over 23 900 tests during the year to verify the compliance of various products with the relevant safety requirements. Urgent analytical service was provided to examine festive toys during festive seasons. For children's products and consumer goods that fail safety tests, the Laboratory gives professional advice in the assessment of potential hazards posed by such products. In the investigation of fraudulent trade practices, the Laboratory sustains its statutory role in examining counterfeit and fake goods, verifying weights and measures equipment for trader use, and determining the fineness of gold and platinum articles.
Trade in Endangered Species
Import, export and possession of endangered species are regulated by the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance, which implements the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Licensing policy follows the CITES principles closely. Commercial import and export of highly endangered species are prohibited, and international trade in less. endangered species is subject to licensing requirements.
The ordinance is administered by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), and enforced by both AFCD and the Customs and Excise Department. It provides for penalties of up to a $5 million fine and imprisonment for two years. In 2004, 22 652 licences and certificates were issued and 278 successful prosecutions were conducted.
Home Pages
Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau: http://www.citb.gov.hk (links to related departments and agencies)
Hong Kong Consumer Council: http://www.consumer.org.hk