Hong Kong Customs conducts anti-illicit cigarette campaign in Sai Wan Estate
Hong Kong Customs visited Sai Wan Estate to raise awareness against illicit cigarettes, reminding residents of increased penalties and introducing a new duty-paid label system to combat 'white packet' cigarettes.
Hong Kong Customs conducted a cross-departmental anti-illicit cigarette publicity campaign in Sai Wan Estate on 13 November 2026. Officers patrolled the public housing estate and informed residents about the department's efforts to combat illegal tobacco, reminding them that the maximum penalty for offences involving non-duty-paid tobacco has been raised to a fine of HK$2 million and seven years' imprisonment. Customs officers also instructed estate security guards on how to respond when discovering suspected illicit cigarette activities.
During the campaign, Customs officers briefed district councilors and residents on the upcoming duty-paid label system to be implemented in Hong Kong. The department completed a three-month pilot scheme for the system earlier this year and will continue close communication with stakeholders to refine the system's design and implementation details. Customs expects the duty-paid label system to effectively distinguish between duty-paid and non-duty-paid cigarettes, targeting 'white packet' cigarettes.
Customs will continue to enhance public education to raise awareness against illicit cigarettes. If a public housing unit is found to be involved in illicit cigarette offences, Customs will notify the Housing Authority after the court concludes the case. Customs urged the public not to buy or sell illicit cigarettes or distribute illicit cigarette flyers, warning that such actions could leave a criminal record and affect their future.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Chapter 109), anyone who deals with, possesses, sells or purchases illicit cigarettes commits an offence, and upon conviction faces a maximum fine of HK$2 million and seven years' imprisonment. The public can report suspected illicit cigarette activities via the Customs 24-hour hotline 182 8080, the dedicated email account [email protected], or the online form at eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002.
Under the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Chapter 371), no person may distribute any form of smoking product advertisement, including any flyer, with offenders liable to a maximum fine of HK$50,000. The public can report suspected illicit cigarette flyer distribution to the Department of Health's Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office hotline at 2961 8823.