Apple tightens Hong Kong online sales policy to deter scalpers ahead of iPhone 8 launch

Apple Inc appears to have tightened its sales policy for Hong Kong a second time, with another custom tailored restriction to deter scalpers from getting their hands on the much-awaited launch next month of its iPhone 8 model.

In a note on Apple’s online store in Hong Kong, the company announced that it will not “accept return for online orders placed on, and after August 15th, 2017.” Apple’s online stores in mainland China still offer customers both free delivery, and return services.

Apple didn’t reply to the South China Morning Post’s inquiries regarding its sales policy in the city.

The move mirrors the policy unveiled in September last year during the launch of Apple’s iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus models, when the company levied a 25 per cent “open box fee,” or a 15 per cent “restocking fee” when customers return their Apple or Beats products, depending on whether the packaging had been opened.

The policy may be temporary in nature, apparently paving the way for the launch of a new iPhone, said Zhao Ziming, an industry analyst in Beijing.