Hong Kong Customs Launches Publicity Campaign Against Illicit Cigarettes in Shun Tin Estate and Choi Hung Estate

2026-08-27 17:37 Last Updated At：23:21

Hong Kong Customs conducts interdepartmental anti-illicit cigarette publicity campaigns in Shun Tin Estate and Choi Hung Estate

Hong Kong Customs today (August 27) conducted joint anti-illicit cigarette publicity campaigns with members of the District Council, the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health, the Housing Department (HD) and the Hong Kong Police Force at Shun Tin Estate in Kwun Tong and Choi Hung Estate in Wong Tai Sin. Customs also publicised the Duty Stamp System.

Customs officers patrolled the housing estates and introduced to residents Customs' enforcement actions against illicit cigarettes, and reminded them that the maximum penalty for offences related to duty-not-paid cigarettes has been increased to a $2 million fine and seven-years' imprisonment. Customs also explained to estate security personnel how to deal with suspected illicit cigarette activities.

Customs officers also introduced the Duty Stamp System to be implemented in Hong Kong to members of the District Council, residents, newspaper stall keepers and cigarette retailers. A three-month Pilot Run for the Duty Stamp System launched by Customs concluded early this year. The department will continue to maintain close communication with all stakeholders and optimise the design and implementation details of the system. Customs expects the Duty Stamp System to achieve the ultimate goal of helping the public distinguish duty-paid cigarettes from duty-not-paid ones, and to combat "cheap whites".

Customs will continue to strengthen publicity and education to raise public awareness of anti-illicit cigarettes. If public rental housing units are found to be involved in illicit cigarette crimes, Customs will notify the HD for follow-up action after the conclusion of court proceedings. Customs reminds members of the public not to buy or sell illicit cigarettes or distribute illicit cigarette leaflets to avoid creating a criminal record that could affect their future.

Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109), anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 182 8080, its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

In accordance with the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371), no person shall distribute any smoking product advertisement (including any promotional leaflet). Any person who contravenes the regulation is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000. Members of the public are also urged to report any suspected activities of illicit cigarette leaflet distribution to TACO's hotline 2961 8823.

Hong Kong Golden Age Film Season Showcases 16 Iconic Films in London

Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) supported Plus One Films in presenting the Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 Film Season at the Garden Cinema in London from July 9 to August 27(London time).

The Film Season presented 16 iconic Hong Kong films across 29 screenings, showcasing works by some of Hong Kong's most celebrated filmmakers and the rich diversity of stories and filmmaking styles that emerged during that remarkable era when Hong Kong established itself as one of the world's most prolific, dynamic and influential centres of film production. A themed panel discussion was arranged during the season, and selected screenings were complemented by expert introductions and Q&As, offering audiences an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Hong Kong cinema and its creative legacy.

A highlight of the season was the Masterclass: In Conversation with Stanley Kwan, held on August 26 (London time) at King's College London. Director Kwan, the season's guest of honour, joined Professor Victor Fan of King's College London for a lively and insightful conversation, engaging with film critics, students and members of the audience. He shared his filmmaking journey, creative insights, and reflections on the evolution of the Hong Kong film industry. The season also featured a selection of Director Kwan's acclaimed works, including Center Stage, Full Moon in New York and Red Rose White Rose.

The Director-General of the London ETO, Miss Fiona Chau, addressed the audience at the masterclass. She highlighted the enduring appeal of Hong Kong cinema and the important role of film in fostering cultural connections between Hong Kong and audiences around the world.

"Hong Kong films are rooted in the city and its experiences, but the emotions and questions they explore can resonate across cultures and generations. It is particularly encouraging to see these films being discovered, and rediscovered, by audiences in London," Miss Chau said.

She added that the London ETO was keen to foster cultural connections through film. "Film has a wonderful ability to bring people closer to a place and its culture, allowing audiences to experience another city and another culture through its characters and stories. And when we have a filmmaker here with us, as we do tonight, that exchange becomes even more meaningful and enriching."

Plus One Films is dedicated to promoting the work of Chinese filmmakers in the United Kingdom through regular screenings and cultural programme including the Chinese Cinema Project and curated film seasons. The Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 film season ran from July 9to August 27, 2026 (London time). It featured 29 screenings of 16 films, as well as a panel discussion and a masterclass, offering London audiences an opportunity to discover and experience the creativity, diversity and enduring appeal of Hong Kong cinema.

Passenger Convicted and Jailed for Dealing with Duty-Not-Paid Cigarettes and Importing Alternative Smoking Products in Hong Kong.

Two Mainland Passengers Jailed for Importing Duty-Not-Paid Cigarettes at Airport

Youth Development Commission Convenes 22nd Meeting, Highlighting New Initiatives to Boost Employment Opportunities for Young People

Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence Launches Thematic Exhibition "Youth Heading to Yan'an: Patriotic Youth During the War of Resistance"

Hong Kong Customs Launches Publicity Campaign Against Illicit Cigarettes in Shun Tin Estate and Choi Hung Estate

HK