Scrap trader fined for using inaccurate electronic platform scale (with photo)
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Hong Kong Customs earlier received information alleging that a scrap trader in Wan Chai used an inaccurate electronic platform scale to weigh scrap copper. Customs officers then took enforcement action by posing as a vendor selling scrap copper to the trader concerned, whereupon they found that the trader had used an inaccurate platform scale for weighing the scrap copper. A subsequent examination by an accredited laboratory confirmed that the electronic platform scale was inaccurate and the weight shown was about 23 per cent less than its actual weight, thereby paying a lower recycling price. The trader paid $60 less in the case.
Under the WMO, any person who uses for trade, or has in his possession for use for trade, any weighing or measuring equipment which is false or defective commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $25,000. The false or defective weighing or measuring equipment is liable to forfeiture. In addition, if any fraud is committed in the use for trade of any weighing or measuring equipment, the person perpetrating the fraud commits an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $25,000 and imprisonment for six months.
Customs reminds traders that they should use accurate weighing equipment and comply with the requirements of the WMO when recycling scrap.
Hong Kong Customs appeals to the public to report any case of suspected fraud using defective weighing or measuring equipment to the department by 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Ends/Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Issued at HKT 14:55
Issued at HKT 14:55
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