Customs Launches Joint Anti-Illicit Cigarette Campaign in Public Housing Estates
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department launched a comprehensive joint anti-illicit cigarette publicity initiative on July 27, 2024, in two major public housing estates. The campaign brought together multiple government departments to educate residents about the dangers of illegal tobacco trade and the upcoming duty-paid label system. Officers conducted on-site patrols, engaged directly with local communities, and delivered clear warnings about severe legal consequences for violations.
Key Points
- Hong Kong Customs collaborated with district councillors, the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office under the Department of Health, the Housing Department, and the Police Force for the joint operation
- The campaign took place in Shun Tin Estate in Kwun Tong district and Choi Hung Estate in Wong Tai Sin district on July 27, 2024
- Maximum penalties for offences related to unpaid tobacco duty have been increased to a fine of HK$2 million and imprisonment for seven years
- A three-month pilot programme for the duty-paid label system was completed earlier this year, with Customs continuing to refine the system through stakeholder consultations
- Customs officers briefed estate security staff on response procedures for suspected illegal cigarette activities
- District councillors, residents, newsstand operators, and cigarette retailers were briefed on the new duty-paid label system designed to combat "white label cigarettes"
- If public rental housing units are found involved in illegal cigarette operations, Customs will notify the Housing Department for follow-up action after court proceedings conclude
Why It Matters
The campaign reflects the government's intensified efforts to crack down on the illegal cigarette trade, which deprives the Treasury of substantial tax revenue while potentially exposing the public to unregulated tobacco products. With the duty-paid label system entering its final implementation stage, this outreach ensures residents and retailers understand how to distinguish legal from illegal products, while the elevated penalties serve as a stronger deterrent against violations .
The campaign reflects the government's intensified efforts to crack down on the illegal cigarette trade, which deprives the Treasury of substantial tax revenue while potentially exposing the public to unregulated tobacco products. With the duty-paid label system entering its final implementation stage, this outreach ensures residents and retailers understand how to distinguish legal from illegal products, while the elevated penalties serve as a stronger deterrent against violations .