https://www.scmp.com/rss/323152/feed Hong Kong's Consumer Council is a watchdog focused on consumer rights and welfare. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Matthew Cheng Matthew Cheng A catapult toy and a tangram set could pose injury and choking risks to children, Hong Kong customs has warned, urging retailers to pull the products from shelves. The Customs and Excise Department said on Saturday that it had seized 700 units of the toys during an operation and issued a prohibition notice banning their sale. The action followed an earlier safety test on various toys bought at Chinese New Year fairs. “To avoid accidents, parents should immediately stop letting their children... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353799/hong-kong-parents-warned-choking-injury-risks-catapult-and-tangram-toys?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353799/hong-kong-parents-warned-choking-injury-risks-catapult-and-tangram-toys?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 May 2026 05:25:51 +0000 Eric Jiang Eric Jiang The cooling efficiency of 13 air-conditioner models bearing Hong Kong’s top energy label can vary by up to 33 per cent, the consumer watchdog has found, calling for improved grading standards. The Consumer Council on Thursday released test results for 13 models of 1.5-horsepower inverter split-type air conditioners, finding “substantial differences” in energy-saving performance among units all holding a Grade 1 label. “Apart from the Grade 1 energy label, [consumers] can also check the annual... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353509/top-rated-air-cons-hong-kong-vary-33-cooling-efficiency-watchdog-finds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353509/top-rated-air-cons-hong-kong-vary-33-cooling-efficiency-watchdog-finds?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 May 2026 05:14:09 +0000 Alice Wu Alice Wu You can’t buy happiness, they say. But we “buy” dopamine fixes all the time. Just whip out the smartphone and we easily go down that rabbit hole of endless doom scrolling, falling into the addictive trap of instant gratification, chasing likes, shares, comments and followers as rewards. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in our experience of pleasure, focus, reward and motivation. It propels us to put in effort, devote time and feel good about our achievements. Before the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3352904/hong-kong-right-move-extend-long-arm-law-claw-machines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3352904/hong-kong-right-move-extend-long-arm-law-claw-machines?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2026 01:30:05 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun A data breach at Yau Yat Chuen Garden City Club has compromised the personal information of more than 9,000 people, Hong Kong’s privacy watchdog has found, urging organisations to review security measures and update software to close loopholes. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data on Thursday also released a guide for parents and teachers to safeguard children’s online privacy amid increasing risks facing youngsters online. Revealing the data breach, Privacy Commissioner for... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3351143/personal-info-9045-people-compromised-hong-kong-private-club-data-breach?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3351143/personal-info-9045-people-compromised-hong-kong-private-club-data-breach?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:41:48 +0000 Danny Mok Danny Mok Hong Kong police have arrested an employee of a systems maintenance contractor hired by the Hospital Authority on suspicion of stealing the personal data of more than 56,000 patients and 1,000 staff members. The arrest of a 30-year-old local man came just days after the authority reported on Saturday a suspected data leak involving patients in the Kowloon East group of hospitals on a third‑party platform, with police and the privacy watchdog investigating. Police revealed on Wednesday that more... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3349378/police-arrest-man-suspicion-stealing-personal-data-56000-patients?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3349378/police-arrest-man-suspicion-stealing-personal-data-56000-patients?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:57:48 +0000 Letters Letters Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words Earlier this year, the Centre for Food Safety noted that a number of Hongkongers had fallen ill after eating raw oysters, and pointed out that the norovirus is a pathogen of concern in such cases. There are food safety and hygiene regulations in place regarding raw oysters, so how... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3348883/hong-kong-consumers-need-not-be-sea-when-it-comes-oysters?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3348883/hong-kong-consumers-need-not-be-sea-when-it-comes-oysters?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Apr 2026 03:30:08 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Round-the-clock gyms have mushroomed across Hong Kong in recent years, offering flexibility and convenience to time-pressed people juggling work and exercise. But just like the notorious problems of aggressive sales tactics and long membership contracts with chain fitness centres in the industry’s heyday, these smaller outlets running on a new business model also come with hidden costs and privacy issues that consumers cannot afford to ignore. A targeted investigation by the Consumer Council on... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3347264/more-transparency-needed-fees-and-data-24-hour-gym-memberships?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3347264/more-transparency-needed-fees-and-data-24-hour-gym-memberships?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Mar 2026 22:45:08 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Monthly fees at Hong Kong’s 24-hour fitness centres vary widely and can more than double depending on additional charges, the Consumer Council has found, as it warned residents to be cautious when providing sensitive personal data, including facial images for recognition systems. The consumer watchdog revealed on Monday the results of a survey of 11 round-the-clock gym operators, finding that although all offered monthly membership plans, nearly half imposed extra non-refundable charges that... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3346709/hong-kong-watchdog-warns-24-hour-gym-users-hidden-costs-data-privacy-risks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3346709/hong-kong-watchdog-warns-24-hour-gym-users-hidden-costs-data-privacy-risks?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:03:47 +0000 Ambrose Li,Oscar Liu Ambrose Li,Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has received at least 174 complaints after Taiwanese rock band Mayday cancelled one of its coming concerts at Kai Tak Sports Park and rescheduled it for later, sparking frustration among fans. The Consumer Council said that as of 5pm on Thursday, it had received complaints from 80 residents and 94 from outside Hong Kong, involving a total sum of HK$485,333 (US$62,010). The largest local claim amounted to HK$7,900, whereas the largest non-local case concerned... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3346341/over-160-complaints-filed-after-mayday-shifts-hong-kong-show-consumer-council?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3346341/over-160-complaints-filed-after-mayday-shifts-hong-kong-show-consumer-council?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:05:30 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has received dozens of complaints after Taiwanese rock band Mayday cancelled one of its coming concerts at Kai Tak Sports Park and replaced it with a new date later in the week, sparking frustration among fans – particularly those travelling from mainland China and overseas. The Consumer Council said that as of 1pm on Tuesday, it had received 24 complaints about the cancelled show – eight from local consumers and 16 from fans outside the city. The watchdog said the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3346132/sour-note-fans-after-taiwanese-rock-band-mayday-switches-hong-kong-date?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3346132/sour-note-fans-after-taiwanese-rock-band-mayday-switches-hong-kong-date?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:15:06 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Food poisoning, while traumatic for victims, rarely draws wider attention unless there are clusters of cases. A spate of recent incidents linked to oysters served in Hong Kong must prompt quick action from the industry and health authorities to find the source, ensure safety and make changes to protect the city’s reputation. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department’s Centre for Food Safety has identified dozens of cases linked to raw shellfish imported from South Korea, Spain and France.... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3343888/food-poisoning-cases-hong-kong-must-prompt-swift-mitigation-efforts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3343888/food-poisoning-cases-hong-kong-must-prompt-swift-mitigation-efforts?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:45:07 +0000 Fiona Chow Fiona Chow Perfumes from Italian fashion brand Gucci and two other luxury products have been found to contain 10 types of fragrance allergens that could worsen skin conditions for eczema patients, Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has said. The Consumer Council said on Monday that it tested 40 perfume products, including Gucci’s “The Alchemist’s Garden Tears from the Moon Eau de Parfum”, priced at HK$2,850 (US$365) per 100ml (3.4-ounce) bottle – the most expensive option examined. Two other products that... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3343755/hong-kong-watchdog-finds-fragrance-allergens-gucci-bvlgari-perfumes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3343755/hong-kong-watchdog-finds-fragrance-allergens-gucci-bvlgari-perfumes?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:02:44 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Some shopping centres in Hong Kong display unclear parking discount terms that often lead to disputes, the consumer watchdog has said, citing a case in which a driver was billed HK$1,210 (US$155) for a full day, more than seven times the advertised rate. The Consumer Council said on Monday that complaints about car-park services had remained persistently high in recent years, with 120 cases recorded in 2025, reversing a dip to 96 in 2024 and roughly matching the 118 in 2023. “Most cases were... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343691/warning-unclear-parking-offers-after-hongkonger-charged-7-times-more-advertised?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343691/warning-unclear-parking-offers-after-hongkonger-charged-7-times-more-advertised?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:34:18 +0000 Matthew Cheng Matthew Cheng A man who paid HK$170,000 (US$22,000) for a hair transplant has complained that “nearly all” of the initial 1,000 artificial strands fell out within a year – far earlier than the company’s claim that the results would last more than six years, Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has revealed. The Consumer Council on Monday warned against exaggerated claims of effectiveness after continuously receiving complaints about scalp inflammation, artificial hair detachment and unsatisfactory... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343676/hongkonger-denied-refund-after-hk88000-hair-treatment-causes-scalp-bleeding?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3343676/hongkonger-denied-refund-after-hk88000-hair-treatment-causes-scalp-bleeding?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Feb 2026 03:23:55 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying,Danny Mok,Theodora Yu Lo Hoi-ying,Danny Mok,Theodora Yu Some recent food poisoning cases in Hong Kong have been linked to raw oysters supplied by a company in Spain, prompting authorities to instruct the food trade to suspend imports and sales from the firm. The Centre for Food Safety revealed the latest results of its investigation into dozens of recent food poisoning cases on Friday night – hours after a restaurant chain told the South China Morning Post that raw oysters consumed by diners who fell ill came from France and were supplied by a Hong... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3343376/hong-kong-diners-urged-avoid-raw-oysters-more-food-poisoning-cases-found?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3343376/hong-kong-diners-urged-avoid-raw-oysters-more-food-poisoning-cases-found?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:31:43 +0000 Lam Ka-sing Lam Ka-sing A one-year-old girl may have suffered food poisoning after consuming Nestlé infant milk formula, Hong Kong authorities have said, while revealing they have received about 50 reports of children feeling unwell amid a growing contamination scare. The Centre for Food Safety separately ordered the immediate removal of 390 cans of Aptamil Profutura DUO Advance 1 (800g) from shelves, as officials expanded a citywide recall to include a second batch of the milk powder imported from Germany. The Centre... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342731/hong-kong-toddler-suspected-have-fallen-ill-tainted-milk-formula?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342731/hong-kong-toddler-suspected-have-fallen-ill-tainted-milk-formula?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:25:08 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Driving can be challenging in Hong Kong, where despite high safety standards there are dozens of accidents each day on the city’s busy road network. Unfortunately, motorists face a new hazard – scammers making bogus claims. Police announced several arrests on Wednesday, a week after the force and insurers raised the alarm about unusually high and belated compensation claims for minor or non-existent traffic accidents. Victims and the insurance industry have been steadily reporting cases since... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342499/swift-action-traffic-accident-scams-hong-kong-be-commended?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342499/swift-action-traffic-accident-scams-hong-kong-be-commended?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:45:08 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong Hong Kong’s food safety watchdog has recalled a batch of Aptamil powdered infant milk formula over fears it may be contaminated with a toxin found in similar products. The Centre for Food Safety said on Tuesday evening that a local retailer had sold “a small quantity” of a batch suspected to contain cereulide, prompting a precautionary recall. The affected product is Aptamil Profutura DUO Pre D 800g, with a use-by date of April 20, 2027. The watchdog said it had earlier learned that German... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342336/hong-kong-recalls-aptamil-baby-milk-formula-batch-over-toxin-contamination-fears?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342336/hong-kong-recalls-aptamil-baby-milk-formula-batch-over-toxin-contamination-fears?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 Feb 2026 06:18:11 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial It says something about Hong Kong governance when a simple and well-intentioned requirement for bus passengers to buckle up has become yet another embarrassing policy setback involving the executive branch and the revamped Legislative Council. The abrupt U-turn over the new law on seat belts, less than a week after it took effect, might have been one solution to a problematic law. But the blunder is a blow to the image of the government and of Legco, amid mounting public expectations for better... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342073/valuable-lessons-be-learnt-u-turn-seat-belt-law-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342073/valuable-lessons-be-learnt-u-turn-seat-belt-law-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:15:11 +0000 Danny Mok Danny Mok Hong Kong authorities have found traces of a toxin in another five samples of Nestlé baby milk formula, marking the second such discovery since batches of the firm’s products were withdrawn over contamination fears. The Centre for Food Safety said on Monday night that during its ongoing follow-up investigations, five samples among 22 batches recalled earlier tested positive for the toxin cereulide, produced by the Bacillus cereus bacterium. The toxin levels ranged from 0.2 to 1.3 micrograms per... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342152/traces-toxin-found-more-nestle-baby-milk-formula-samples-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342152/traces-toxin-found-more-nestle-baby-milk-formula-samples-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:02:04 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong Hong Kong authorities have discovered traces of a toxin in four batches of baby milk formula products previously recalled by Nestlé. In a statement issued on Saturday evening, the Centre for Food Safety said the Swiss food giant had recalled about 96,000 tins of affected products due to the possible presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, found in the ingredients. The centre had issued a warning in early January when the Swiss food giant’s Hong Kong unit began recalling 21... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3341139/hong-kong-authorities-find-toxins-4-batches-milk-formula-recalled-nestle?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3341139/hong-kong-authorities-find-toxins-4-batches-milk-formula-recalled-nestle?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 25 Jan 2026 03:49:46 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong Map applications used by seven of eight power bank rental platforms display inaccurate navigation or location data, which may cause delays and extra charges for users, Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has found. The Consumer Council on Thursday also found a significant variance in rental fees across different stations within the same platforms, with charges for a 30-minute rental differing by nearly 1.3 times and the daily cap on charges differing by more than 2.3 times. “When in urgent need of a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339979/mapping-issues-7-8-power-bank-rental-platforms-tested-hong-kong-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339979/mapping-issues-7-8-power-bank-rental-platforms-tested-hong-kong-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jan 2026 06:14:41 +0000 Connor Mycroft,Harvey Kong Connor Mycroft,Harvey Kong Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has called on businesses to improve services for elderly customers after receiving more than 9,200 complaints in the past three years, including one from a woman who spent HK$400,000 (US$51,294) on beauty treatments. The Consumer Council said on Thursday that improving services for older people would help boost the spending potential of the “silver economy”, a priority for the government amid a rapidly ageing population. “The council urges traders to provide... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339954/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-urges-better-elderly-services-after-9206-complaints?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339954/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-urges-better-elderly-services-after-9206-complaints?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jan 2026 04:22:12 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma Nestlé Hong Kong has recalled another batch of baby milk formula over fears of potential bacterial contamination, while the latest government tests found no toxins in the brand’s products currently on sale locally. A spokeswoman for Nestlé Hong Kong said on Saturday that the company had added a batch of formula with a best-before date of June 16, 2027, to its recall list first released on Tuesday over cereulide, a toxin derived from the microorganism Bacillus cereus. “The batch only had a small... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339458/nestle-hong-kong-recalls-another-baby-milk-formula-batch-test-samples-clear?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3339458/nestle-hong-kong-recalls-another-baby-milk-formula-batch-test-samples-clear?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Jan 2026 15:29:29 +0000 Fiona Sun,Emily Hung Fiona Sun,Emily Hung Hong Kong health authorities have received 14 reports of infants feeling unwell after consuming potentially contaminated Nestlé baby milk formula, but nearly all of the cases have been cleared of involving a toxin found in recalled products. The government earlier issued a warning after Nestlé recalled 21 batches of baby milk formula made in Europe due to the possible presence of cereulide produced by Bacillus cereus, a substance that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea if ingested. The Department... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3339162/were-really-panicked-hong-kong-parents-lose-faith-nestle-after-product-recall?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3339162/were-really-panicked-hong-kong-parents-lose-faith-nestle-after-product-recall?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:48:15 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying,Susan Su Lo Hoi-ying,Susan Su Hong Kong pharmacies started pulling batches of Nestle baby milk formula from their shelves on Wednesday after a recall by the manufacturer over potential contamination, prompting frantic searches by thousands of mothers for alternative products. Nestle Hong Kong apologised to parents for any distress or inconvenience caused, saying that it had not received any reports of illness or discomfort related to the products to date. Hong Kong food safety authorities said on Tuesday that Nestle had... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3339031/hong-kong-pharmacies-pull-nestle-baby-milk-formula-amid-recall-over-toxin-risk?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3339031/hong-kong-pharmacies-pull-nestle-baby-milk-formula-amid-recall-over-toxin-risk?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:23:43 +0000 Jiang Chuqin Jiang Chuqin About a quarter of face washes tested contain only some or none of their claimed active ingredients, Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has revealed. It also urged users to try a small portion on their skin beforehand as a precaution when using cleansers that were highly acidic. The Consumer Council said on Monday that it tested 25 face washes with exfoliating properties and found that six of them, which were labelled as containing alpha-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid or both, failed to meet their... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336478/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-finds-1-4-face-washes-fall-short-ingredients?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336478/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-finds-1-4-face-washes-fall-short-ingredients?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:37:14 +0000 Jiang Chuqin Jiang Chuqin Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has received 88 complaints related to matching services and dating apps so far this year, an increase of 46.7 per cent from the same period in 2024, including one case in which a woman spent HK$70,000 (US$9,000) but was offered no candidate who met her requirements. The Consumer Council said on Monday that it had recorded 268 complaints about matching services and apps since 2022, including cases in which recommended candidates did not meet requirements, or there... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3336448/hong-kong-watchdog-logs-88-complaints-dating-services-apps-so-far-year-47?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3336448/hong-kong-watchdog-logs-88-complaints-dating-services-apps-so-far-year-47?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Dec 2025 06:15:35 +0000 William Yiu William Yiu A Hong Kong travel agency has allegedly broken the law by announcing its plan to fold only a day before its closure, affecting 1,500 customers and involving about HK$1.7 million (US$218,400), according to a watchdog. The Travel Industry Authority on Wednesday vowed to investigate M&F Lucky Holiday after the company announced on Monday its intention to cease operations the following day. “It constitutes a breach of the ordinance,” the watchdog said, referring to the Travel Industry Ordinance,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335014/hong-kong-travel-agency-probed-announcing-closure-only-day-it-folds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335014/hong-kong-travel-agency-probed-announcing-closure-only-day-it-folds?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:06:03 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has warned residents travelling abroad to carefully compare the scope of coverage and exclusions of different insurance plans following complaints regarding disputes over claims. The Consumer Council said on Monday it had received 221 complaints about travel insurance since 2022, including 152 disputed claims. It noted that 55 complaints were filed in the first 10 months of 2025, down from 80 in the same period last year. The council said the cases reflected... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333038/hong-kong-watchdog-urges-scrutiny-travel-insurance-terms-amid-claims-disputes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333038/hong-kong-watchdog-urges-scrutiny-travel-insurance-terms-amid-claims-disputes?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:12:15 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has slammed driving schools over opaque fees, with one charging nearly twice the quoted rate for extra lessons to meet the minimum number of training hours. The Consumer Council said on Monday that all 32 basic courses offered by 11 driving schools failed to meet the Transport Department’s requirement of 30 hours of practical training, forcing students to buy extra lessons and go over their original budget. “The current situation is not ideal, as the packages cannot... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333032/hong-kong-driving-schools-slammed-opaque-fees-insufficient-training-hours?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333032/hong-kong-driving-schools-slammed-opaque-fees-insufficient-training-hours?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Nov 2025 02:59:17 +0000 Letters Letters Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words Hong Kong’s beauty and personal care sector is estimated to have grown into a US$2.38 billion market this year, and is expected to expand steadily at 2.35 per cent annually until 2030. Meanwhile, the beauty services industry – comprising hairdressing, skincare, manicure, slimming... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3332278/regulation-hong-kongs-beauty-industry-cannot-be-skin-deep?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3332278/regulation-hong-kongs-beauty-industry-cannot-be-skin-deep?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 12 Nov 2025 03:30:08 +0000 Ken Ip Ken Ip Recently a video went viral of a plain clothes Hong Kong police officer aboard a minibus counting how many passengers had not fastened their seat belts. The police said summons would be issued to commuters who had been found to be not wearing seat belts. Social media lit up with surprise, amusement and debate. Some wondered if undercover policing could soon spread to buses or taxis. The law itself is hardly new. Minibus passengers have been required to buckle up for more than 20 years. What... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3331480/hong-kongs-road-safety-laws-must-be-enforced-clarity-and-care?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3331480/hong-kongs-road-safety-laws-must-be-enforced-clarity-and-care?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:34:22 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Justice delayed is justice denied. This appears to be the public perception after a complaint against a paediatrician’s alleged mistreatment that left a newborn incapacitated for life 16 years ago was thrown out by the medical watchdog on the grounds of prolonged procedural delays. The ruling has raised concerns that more doctors could use similar excuses to escape accountability. The Medical Council, the doctors’ self-regulation and disciplinary body, has had its fair share of criticism over... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3331217/medical-council-must-handle-all-complaints-fairly-and-promptly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3331217/medical-council-must-handle-all-complaints-fairly-and-promptly?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Nov 2025 22:45:10 +0000 Jiang Chuqin Jiang Chuqin Some major restaurant chains in Hong Kong are offering discounted cash coupons to attract customers in a sluggish market, but the city’s consumer watchdog has warned people to check the terms carefully and buy only what they genuinely need. Tai Hing, a leading casual dining group with 19 brands, launched promotions earlier this month to mark the second anniversary of its mobile app. Customers who bought HK$1,000 (US$129) worth of coupons between October 9 and 20 received 23 cash coupons valued... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3331168/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-urges-caution-over-prepaid-restaurant-coupon-schemes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3331168/hong-kong-consumer-watchdog-urges-caution-over-prepaid-restaurant-coupon-schemes?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Nov 2025 08:01:37 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial A dramatic video showing an undercover operation by Hong Kong police to catch minibus passengers not wearing seat belts went viral last week. The footage of the sting, which led to 31 people receiving summonses, provided a timely reminder of the need to buckle up. Greater public awareness is required as the city makes long-overdue amendments to road safety rules. Restraint devices will be required for children under eight or shorter than 1.35 metres in private cars from Saturday. The safety... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3330736/hong-kongs-tighter-seat-belt-rules-are-welcome-more-can-be-done?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3330736/hong-kongs-tighter-seat-belt-rules-are-welcome-more-can-be-done?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Oct 2025 23:15:08 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Patient safety remains the paramount consideration of Hong Kong’s public and private healthcare systems, enshrined outside the public sector in the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance. Regulations already cover private hospitals and day care centres. Now the city’s 5,000 clinics, including beauty parlours providing clients with injections, are to come under a licensing regime. It is not before time. The new system, mainly targeting clinics that are part of chains, reflects a change in the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3329352/hong-kongs-licensing-regime-clinics-just-what-doctor-ordered?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3329352/hong-kongs-licensing-regime-clinics-just-what-doctor-ordered?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Oct 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Jiang Chuqin Jiang Chuqin Some pet toys sold in Hong Kong have been found to contain chemicals that can trigger allergies in dogs or cause cancer in humans and animals, although most samples comply with children’s toy standards, the city’s consumer watchdog has found. The Consumer Council revealed on Wednesday that 97 per cent of pet toys it tested complied with migration limits stipulated in the European safety standard for children’s toys, but one leather toy contained higher levels of chromium III, which can cause... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3329083/some-pet-toys-hong-kong-have-chemicals-can-cause-allergies-illness-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3329083/some-pet-toys-hong-kong-have-chemicals-can-cause-allergies-illness-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:37:52 +0000 Emily Hung Emily Hung Thousands of private clinics in Hong Kong can start applying for a new operating licence or a letter of exemption from Monday under a tightened regulatory regime that also targets beauty parlours providing injections to customers. Doctors have generally expressed support for the new rules as a necessary “body check”, but anticipate a complex undertaking with documentation and potential struggles with the online application. Dr Darwin Mak Wai-lai, head of the Department of Health’s Office for... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3328720/applications-open-5000-private-hong-kong-clinics-face-new-licensing-rules?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3328720/applications-open-5000-private-hong-kong-clinics-face-new-licensing-rules?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:30:18 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hongkongers will be able to enjoy cheaper, fresher hairy crabs following the resumption of direct imports of the seasonal delicacy from mainland China after six years, with sellers and industry representatives expecting a jump in demand and sales. The Environment and Ecology Bureau said on Saturday that more directly imported hairy crabs were expected to enter Hong Kong soon after the first two batches of 300kg in total had been shipped to the city from Jiangsu province, home to some of the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3327890/hong-kong-set-cheaper-fresher-hairy-crabs-mainland-china-imports-resume?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3327890/hong-kong-set-cheaper-fresher-hairy-crabs-mainland-china-imports-resume?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Oct 2025 12:56:25 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying The Hong Kong government had “clearly stated” to the organiser of a failed hot-air balloon festival that the chance of approving passengers to ride in the aircraft was “extremely slim” and had recommended that it cancel the attraction and issue refunds ahead of time, the tourism chief has revealed. Making public the details for the first time, Secretary for Sports, Culture and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui on Thursday said authorities told the organiser eight days before the event began in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326893/balloon-festival-organiser-was-urged-cancel-rides-hong-kong-tourism-chief?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326893/balloon-festival-organiser-was-urged-cancel-rides-hong-kong-tourism-chief?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Sep 2025 15:17:34 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial When it comes to consumer protection, vaccinations for children might seem like a low priority for attention, yet investigations by the city’s watchdog found an array of practices across the medical industry that raised red flags. Parents would do well to heed its advice before making any decisions. Under the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme, almost all eligible young people from birth to Primary Six are provided with free vaccination services targeting 12 infectious diseases,... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3326111/consumer-council-right-flag-issues-around-child-vaccinations?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3326111/consumer-council-right-flag-issues-around-child-vaccinations?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 21 Sep 2025 23:15:09 +0000 Danny Mok Danny Mok Hong Kong police have arrested three people for allegedly practising medicine without a licence at a Central cosmetic clinic after two women suffered from septic shock following anti-ageing intravenous injections. The women, both 57, were hospitalised after undergoing infusion treatments at a clinic named Bioscor Hong Kong in Crawford House on Queen’s Road Central, the Department of Health said on Thursday. The women reportedly received infusions containing nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3326042/3-held-hong-kong-after-anti-ageing-shots-clinic-leave-2-women-seriously-ill?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3326042/3-held-hong-kong-after-anti-ageing-shots-clinic-leave-2-women-seriously-ill?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:43:11 +0000 Vivian Au Vivian Au Hong Kong’s leader has pledged to strengthen the government’s say in the renewal of a private operator’s lease for the Central Harbourfront next year, following the city’s recent hot-air balloon festival saga. Earlier this month, the HK$30 million (US$3.8 million) four-day AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest, held at the Central Harbourfront Event Space, drew fire after the organiser failed to obtain a licence for its advertised tethered balloon rides. The government approved the festival’s... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325724/hong-kong-scrutinise-central-harbourfront-lease-after-hot-air-balloon-saga?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325724/hong-kong-scrutinise-central-harbourfront-lease-after-hot-air-balloon-saga?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:01:55 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu A Hong Kong banquet restaurant that promoted its venue at a wedding expo last month is suspected to have shut without notice, leaving couples who made event bookings in the lurch. The Customs and Excise Department said on Tuesday it had received reports about Starry Terrace’s suspected closure and pledged to take enforcement action if any violation of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance was found. The restaurant is part of the Super Star Group in Tsim Sha Tsui. As of 5pm on Tuesday, the Consumer... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3325700/hong-kong-banquet-restaurants-suspected-closure-leaves-wedding-bookings-limbo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3325700/hong-kong-banquet-restaurants-suspected-closure-leaves-wedding-bookings-limbo?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Sep 2025 07:01:26 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog recorded 548 complaints against pharmacies over malpractice in the first eight months of this year, including a Singaporean woman who was charged 100 times the normal price for the herbs she bought. Such “unscrupulous sales practices” could erode tourists’ confidence, the Consumer Council warned on Monday, adding that some of the complaints saw pharmacies and medicine shops accused of deliberately using unclear pricing. Other tactics included the promotion of... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325579/singaporeans-hk30400-herb-bill-sparks-warning-over-hong-kong-pharmacy-malpractices?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325579/singaporeans-hk30400-herb-bill-sparks-warning-over-hong-kong-pharmacy-malpractices?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:25:38 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong More than 90 per cent of clay masks tested in Hong Kong have been found to contain heavy metals, with two exceeding safety limits set by mainland China and the United States, according to the city’s consumer watchdog. The Consumer Council on Monday called on manufacturers to improve formulations and increase transparency after tests of 30 products priced from HK$79 to HK$610 (US$10 to US$78) showed that heavy metals were commonly present in ingredient lists. Twenty-eight, or 93.3 per cent,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325554/93-30-clay-masks-found-contain-heavy-metals-hong-kong-consumer-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325554/93-30-clay-masks-found-contain-heavy-metals-hong-kong-consumer-watchdog?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:15:05 +0000 Connor Mycroft Connor Mycroft Hong Kong parents should not buy private prepaid vaccination plans for their children without prior medical consultation, the consumer watchdog has said, after finding that most service providers do not offer full refunds even if a child is deemed unfit for a jab. The Consumer Council also called on Monday for private medical facilities and other service providers to be more transparent about their pricing after discovering that 95 per cent of those surveyed required residents to prepay in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325546/dont-buy-prepaid-vaccinations-children-without-consultation-hong-kong-watchdog-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325546/dont-buy-prepaid-vaccinations-children-without-consultation-hong-kong-watchdog-says?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:23:18 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Dreamy Ho, 40, gained internet fame after her rapid-fire complaints, boldness in speaking up and relentless determination to stand up for her rights captured widespread attention in Hong Kong following a viral interview clip. The lively and eloquent rant was directed at the organiser of a hot-air balloon festival that failed to provide tethered rides despite advertising them, and initially refused to offer a refund, which the single mother said “felt like a scam”. Internet users were impressed... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325421/how-hong-kong-mums-eloquent-hot-air-balloon-rant-won-fans-and-refunds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325421/how-hong-kong-mums-eloquent-hot-air-balloon-rant-won-fans-and-refunds?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Sep 2025 04:07:05 +0000 Wynna Wong,Lo Hoi-ying Wynna Wong,Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong authorities could have provided better guidance to the organiser of a HK$30 million (US$3.85 million) botched hot-air balloon festival, lawmakers have said, even as the government stressed it had already offered professional advice. Lawmakers Doreen Kong Yuk-foon and Michael Tien Puk-sun said on Monday that the government should be more proactive when dealing with high-risk or special events and could conduct reviews for activities held in public venues. “I hope the government can... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3324796/hong-kong-officials-could-have-provided-better-guidance-failed-balloon-event?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3324796/hong-kong-officials-could-have-provided-better-guidance-failed-balloon-event?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 08 Sep 2025 15:28:54 +0000