Hong Kong Customs busts unregistered precious metals dealer over cash transaction
Hong Kong Customs has cracked a case involving an unregistered precious metals and stones dealer who conducted a cash transaction of HK$120,000 or more, violating anti-money laundering regulations.
Hong Kong Customs has detected a case in which a dealer in precious metals and stones, not registered under Category B, conducted a specified cash transaction, the government announced on 9 October 2026.
Under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Chapter 615), anyone intending to carry on a business of dealing in precious metals and stones in Hong Kong must register with Customs if they conduct transactions of HK$120,000 or more, whether receiving or paying the amount, unless they are exempted.
Only a Category B registrant is allowed to conduct a cash transaction of HK$120,000 or more in the course of dealing in precious metals and stones. Any dealer who is not a Category B registrant but claims to be one, claims to be authorised to conduct, or actually conducts any cash transaction of HK$120,000 or more commits an offence. Upon conviction, the offender is liable to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and six months' imprisonment.
Customs reminded precious metals and stones dealers that they must obtain the relevant registration before conducting any cash or non-cash transaction of HK$120,000 or more.
Application forms, procedures and guidelines for registration are available on the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Registration System website (www.drs.customs.gov.hk) or the Customs website (www.customs.gov.hk).
Members of the public can report suspected unregistered transactions of HK$120,000 or more in precious metals and stones by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline 182 8080, emailing [email protected], or using an online form at eform.cefs.gov.hk.
