31st December 2024 – (Hong Kong) Chan Tsz-tat was sworn in today as Hong Kong’s new Commissioner of Customs and Excise. Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Chan emphasised his commitment to upholding national security and improving business facilitation across five key areas.
In a press conference following his inauguration, Chan announced plans to regulate “space oil” by including it in the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. This year, authorities have already disrupted 17 cases related to space oil, resulting in 12 arrests and the seizure of enough substance to produce over 70,000 e-cigarette cartridges. Chan highlighted the use of advanced technology to identify suspicious materials on-site, enhancing enforcement against this emerging threat.
Regarding the fight against illicit tobacco, Chan reiterated the need to combat unlicensed and smuggled cigarettes. He revealed that over 19,000 cases of excess tobacco brought into Hong Kong have been recorded this year, nearly double from the previous year. The Customs Department will focus on dismantling high-level smuggling operations to sever their financial support and prevent the influx of illegal tobacco products.
Chan, who previously served as Deputy Commissioner, brings 30 years of experience in the Customs and Excise Department, poised to tackle the challenges ahead effectively.Share
