Hong Kong authorities uncovered 23 cross-boundary counterfeiting cases in a joint operation with mainland China and Macau in April, seizing about 46,000 items worth HK$16 million. The operation targeted express couriers and lorries at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. Two drivers were arrested and released on bail.
The Customs and Excise Department said on Friday that the operation in April found 21 cases involving local express couriers and logistics companies.
The remaining two cases involved batches of counterfeit goods discovered on two inbound lorries at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, leading to the arrest of two drivers aged 48 and 52. The drivers were released on bail pending further investigation.
The seized items, including watches, phones and luxury goods, were worth an estimated HK$16 million (US$2 million).
Customs said inspections in Hong Kong, the mainland and Macau had been stepped up to combat cross-boundary trade of counterfeit goods. “Hong Kong customs will continue to work closely with the mainland customs, Macau customs and overseas law enforcement agencies to vigorously combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods transhipping activities through intelligence exchanges and joint enforcement actions,” it said.