China coronavirus: Fears of recycled protective masks prompt Hong Kong customs officers to launch checks in stores
- Panic buying spurs officials to check for dishonest traders after internet rumours of shops selling fake goods
Hong Kong customs officials have inspected almost 200 shops selling surgical masks over the past three days, checking for dishonest traders as the city is gripped by panic buying during the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak.
The large-scale operation came as residents complained about the poor quality of masks bought in markets, while a few commenting online suspected some shops were selling “recycled” products.
Since Monday, about 200 customs officers across the city have conducted spot checks and inspections in various districts on surgical masks, to see if the shops broke the law over trade description and consumer goods safety.
Officers had inspected more than 180 retail spots, including chain stores, pharmacies, medicine stores and shops selling daily necessities, as of Wednesday.
“The spot check operation focused on three aspects of surgical masks, namely false origin claims, non-compliance with consumer goods safety standards and false trademarks,” the Customs and Excise Department said in a statement on Wednesday evening,
“Apart from test purchases of surgical masks for safety tests, customs has also contacted brand owners to assist in affirming the authenticity of the brands and origins.”