Unbelievable Markup on Herbal Remedies!

In a jaw-dropping incident, a Singaporean tourist was duped into paying an outrageous HK$30,400 (approximately US$3,908) for herbs at a Hong Kong pharmacy. This eye-popping case highlights persistent issues with dishonest sales practices in local medicine shops.

Consumer Complaints on the Rise!

The Hong Kong Consumer Council revealed that they received 548 complaints regarding pharmacy malpractices just this year between January and August, slightly down from 556 during the same period last year. Among these complaints, the saga of the Singaporean woman stands out for its shocking details.

A Deceptive Sales Pitch!

While shopping for facial cleansers with her family, the tourist encountered aggressive sales tactics from a pharmacist who tirelessly pushed herbs like milk thistle, claiming it was a liver wellness miracle. The sales pitch included an enticing 'buy 80 get 5 free' offer, leading her to believe she was snagging a great deal.

Price Confusion and Hidden Costs!

The scale read 0.85, but crucial pricing information was intentionally obscured. When she spotted a price of HK$380 per 'tael' and estimated her total to be around HK$300, she was blindsided when the final bill turned out to be over 100 times that amount. The shock came when she learned the unit was not 'tael' but 'mace'—a subtle but crucial distinction.

Dealing with the Aftermath!

Despite the outrageous charge, she opted to pay to avoid a scene, especially with her young children in tow. The pharmacy later claimed the price was clearly marked, but neither party could provide evidence to back their claims. Initially, they offered a partial refund, which she declined.

A Small Victory!

Thanks to persistent intervention from the Consumer Council, the pharmacy ultimately agreed to a full refund, contingent on the return of the herbs. This case underlines the need for consumer vigilance in the face of medical and retail deception.

Calls for Change!

The Consumer Council is urging pharmacies to clearly display pricing units, especially those involving traditional measurements that may baffle tourists. They emphasize that transparency is key in maintaining Hong Kong's reputation as a shopper's paradise.

Top Tips for Tourists!

To avoid getting caught in similar traps, consumers are advised to always verify measurement units, clarify total costs, and inspect receipts meticulously. Patrons should also look out for the 'No Fakes' pledge sticker to ensure they are dealing with reputable vendors.

Join the Fight Against Retail Fraud!

The Consumer Council calls for the retail industry to ditch misleading practices and champion integrity, ensuring that every shopping trip in Hong Kong is a positive experience.