Customs issues $47,000 fine for duty evasion on excess cigarettes and alcohol

Customs posted on social media a photo of an exorbitant fine, showing that an individual was fined five times the duty and an additional HK$2,000 for carrying an excess amount of cigarettes and alcohol into Hong Kong without declaring them, the final penalty amounted to HK$47,000.

The Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department reminds that passengers aged 18 or above may bring in one litre of alcoholic liquor with an alcohol strength of more than 30 percent for personal use, free of duty. 

However, holders of Hong Kong Identity Cards must have been away from Hong Kong for not less than 24 hours to be eligible for the duty-free exemption. 

If you are carrying excessive amounts of tobacco or alcohol, remember to go through the Red Channel and make a declaration.