A fruit wholesaler and retailer in Hong Kong has been fined HK$36,000 (US$4,600) by the Kowloon City Magistrates' Courts for supplying and possessing grapes with a false country of origin label. The court also ordered the confiscation of 97 boxes containing 485 bags of grapes found in violation of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance.
The case began after Hong Kong Customs received information about a brand of packaged grapes sold locally with misleading origin labelling. The packaging stated Japan as the country of origin, but authorities suspected the grapes were grown in mainland China.
Following an investigation, customs officers traced the source to a trader operating within the Yau Ma Tei Fruit Wholesale Market. During a test purchase, the trader verbally confirmed that the grapes were from mainland China, contradicting the printed "Japan" label. This inconsistency led to enforcement action and the seizure of the products, which had an estimated market value of HK$37,000 (US$4,740).
Customs officials reminded traders of their legal obligation to comply with the Trade Descriptions Ordinance and advised the public to purchase goods from reputable outlets. Under the ordinance, supplying or possessing for sale any goods with a false trade description is a criminal offence. Convicted offenders face a maximum penalty of HK$500,000 (US$64,100) and up to five years in prison.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected violations through the established reporting channels.
Source: Dimsum Daily
