Heavy Water Delivery Post Sparks Hong Kong Debate
Bastillepost · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
A Hong Kong social media user said they saw a delivery worker preparing to distribute parcels from Taobao and Pinduoduo, including several 12.8-litre bottles of C'estbon distilled water, prompting speculation that some residents are ordering bottled water from mainland e-commerce platforms for delivery to Hong Kong. The poster later said they verified that this type of distilled water can indeed be shipped to Hong Kong with free delivery, and that one 12.8-litre bottle was priced at RMB14.6. The post quickly drew attention online, with many commenters saying they felt sorry for delivery staff handling such heavy items. Others questioned whether the savings were worth it when similar large bottles could be bought locally for about HK$18 each.
Key Points
- The original poster said they saw parcels from Taobao and Pinduoduo on the street, including multiple 12.8-litre bottles of C'estbon distilled water awaiting delivery.
- After checking the listing, the poster said delivery to Hong Kong was free and each 12.8-litre bottle cost only RMB14.6.
- The poster criticized the purchase as excessive, writing that ordering four roughly 13-kilogram bottles was “crazy” even if shipping was included.
- Many Hong Kong commenters said the real hardship fell on couriers and transport workers, not on the buyer placing the online order.
- Other commenters broadened the criticism to free-shipping habits, saying people also order takeaway containers, rice, starch noodles, fruit, cat litter, soil, paint and even sheep manure.
Why It Matters
The discussion goes beyond one order of bottled water and touches on how free-shipping promotions are shaping shopping habits in Hong Kong, especially when low prices encourage purchases of bulky, heavy goods. It also raises practical concerns about labour strain on delivery workers and public unease over the cleanliness and handling of goods moved through long logistics chains.