A Shocking Experience Uncovered

A Singaporean tourist's recent visit to a Hong Kong pharmacy led to an alarming revelation about dubious sales tactics in the city's medicine shops. Charged a staggering HK$30,400 (approximately US$3,908) for a simple herb purchase, her experience underscores a troubling trend of exploitation within the local retail environment.

Consumer Complaints on the Rise

According to the Hong Kong Consumer Council, between January and August of this year, they received 548 complaints against pharmacies, highlighting misconduct in the industry. This figure reflects a slight decrease from last year’s 556 complaints but remains alarming for tourists and residents alike.

The Herb Purchase Breakdown

The incident involved a female tourist who initially entered the shop seeking facial cleansers. Persuaded by a salesperson to buy herbal products, she encountered a marketing ploy that included an enticing 'buy 80, get 5 free' offer on herbs like milk thistle—a common liver supplement. Unaware of the actual pricing structure, she proceeded to agree on what she believed was a price of around HK$300.

However, after the herbs were processed into powder, she was shocked to see a bill amounting to HK$30,400. When questioning the exorbitant amount, she learned the pricing had been based on 'mace' rather than the more familiar 'tael,' with 1 mace equating to just 3.78 grams versus the 37.8 grams of a tael.

Handling the Aftermath

Despite the shocking charge, the tourist opted to pay rather than confront the issue in front of her three children. While the shop argued they had properly labeled prices, neither party could provide photographic evidence. The shop made an initial offer of a partial refund, but that was also turned down.

Industry Integrity Under Scrutiny

Following mediation by the Consumer Council, the pharmacy finally agreed to issue a full refund contingent upon the return of the goods, bringing the case to a close.

The council emphasizes that such deceptive practices not only tarnish Hong Kong's reputation as a premier shopping destination but also shake tourists' confidence in the market. They urged local pharmacies to clearly display pricing units, particularly related to traditional Chinese measurements that many tourists might not understand.

A Call to Action for Consumers

The Consumer Council advises shoppers to meticulously check pricing units, confirm total costs, and ensure that receipts accurately reflect purchased products. To avoid falling prey to malpractice, tourists are encouraged to shop at reputable establishments, especially those displaying the 'No Fakes' pledge sticker, which indicates their commitment to genuine goods and is valid for one year.

In light of these findings, the Hong Kong Consumer Council is calling for an overhaul of business practices within the industry to preserve the city's shopping paradise status, many hope this disturbing trend will drive reforms in consumer protection.