Blacklist, stricter checks for parallel-goods traders
Blacklist and stricter checks on the way, but multiple-entry permits won't be scrapped
Immigration officers will draw up a blacklist of parallel-goods traders and step up inspections, officials said yesterday.
Immigration Director Eric Chan Kwok-ki said the list would cover people who had been arrested in Hong Kong for such trading and it was unlikely they would be allowed back.
Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok said officers would also conduct special checks on mainlanders suspected of being parallel-goods traders - people who legally buy goods in the city to smuggle over the border.
But the government has dismissed calls from some politicians to scrap or limit the multiple-entry permits given to Shenzhen permanent residents, warning it could harm tourism.
Lai said the administration had been in close contact with mainland authorities to crack down on parallel-goods trading, which has been disrupting residents in Sheung Shui and neighbouring communities.
He said the government would work with Guangdong's anti-smuggling office to strengthen co-operation, and devise "clearly targeted" strategies to snare suspects.