Hong Kong Travel Trade Manual

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Compare Prices
Do some looking around before shopping. Prices are
usually clearly marked, particularly in shopping malls,
department stores and chain stores. However, some
small shops and street markets do not always display
prices. In this case, bargaining is often possible.
However, it is advisable to confirm the price of the
goods and unit of measure prior to purchase, in
particular the unit of measure used to derive the price.
Plastic Shopping Bag Charge
For details about Hong Kong’s plastic shopping
bag charging scheme, please visit the website of
Environmental Protection Department
Know Your Products
Gather information on the product or service as well
as users’ experiences, and be sure to ask for more
detailed information that may not be provided in
advertisements and promotional messages, in order
to compare prices, quality and functions. When buying
Chinese medicine, tonic ingredients or dried seafood,
please check on the quoted prices and weight. Before
purchase of electronics, make sure you know what you
want in terms of models, features, prices, accessories
and warranty (including its geographical coverage). Call
the Consumer Council Hotline at +852 2929 2222 for
the names of sole agents of popular brands.
Shop with Peace of Mind
The Trade Descriptions Ordinance serves to enhance
consumer protection. Consumers are advised to remain
vigilant and address any queries they may have while
shopping. Should there be any suspicious offers,
consumers should turn them down firmly and leave
the premises immediately. For enquiries or complaints,
please call the Customs and Excise Department 24-
hour hotline at +852 2815 7711 (General Enquiry) or
+852 2545 6182 (Information Hotline). Details of these
new provisions are available on the Customs’ website
Beware of Bait-and-switch Tactics
This is when unscrupulous retailers showcase a
product at an ambiguous price, but after receiving
a deposit, claim the item is out of
stock. They will then try to sell an
often inferior item at an inflated price.
Always look for clearly marked prices,
shop around before you buy, know
the product you want to buy, check
for the included accessories and
never allow yourself to be rushed into
buying something else. Better still,
shop where you see the QTS sign.
Beware of Parallel Imports
Parallel imports are items brought into Hong Kong by
someone other than the official import agent. The reason
parallel imports are usually cheaper is because they often
offer a restricted guarantee or limited after-sale service.
Beware of Touts (Street Traders)
Be cautious if you’re approached by sales staff on the
street. Don’t buy from street touts, nor follow them into
any warehouses or showrooms.
Inspect Your Products
Check the product before paying and make sure you
have all the accessories that should be included.
Do Not Purchase Pirated or Fake Goods
For your own good, please do not purchase pirated
or counterfeit goods. Hong Kong Customs is the
enforcement agency responsible for intellectual property
D-09
Shopping Tips