Three mainland travellers jailed for importing untaxed cigarettes
Hong Kong Customs sentenced three mainland Chinese men to prison for importing about 175,900 untaxed cigarettes, valued at about HK$827,800, at Hong Kong International Airport on 28 October and 10 November 2026.
Hong Kong Customs announced on 11 November 2026 that three male travellers from mainland China have been sentenced to imprisonment for importing untaxed cigarettes. The three men, aged 43, 56 and 41, were intercepted at Hong Kong International Airport on 28 October and 10 November 2026.
Customs officers found a total of about 175,900 untaxed cigarettes hidden in the travellers' personal luggage. The seized cigarettes have an estimated market value of about HK$827,800, with a duty-evaded value of about HK$581,700. The three men were arrested at the scene.
Hong Kong Customs welcomed the sentences, stating that the custodial sentences serve as a strong deterrent and fully reflect the seriousness of the offences.
Under Hong Kong's Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, cigarettes are dutiable goods. Anyone who imports, handles, possesses, sells or purchases duty-not-paid cigarettes commits an offence. Upon conviction, offenders face a maximum fine of HK$2 million and up to seven years' imprisonment.
Customs reminded the public that they can report suspected duty-not-paid cigarette activities via the Customs 24-hour hotline at 182 8080, the dedicated crime reporting email account [email protected], or the online form at eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002.
