Hong Kong Court Imposes Heavy Fines on Illegal Hazardous E-waste Importer

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Hong Kong’s Fanling Magistrates’ Court has imposed a fine of $26,000 on Sheen Bless Limited on two cases of illegal import of hazardous electronic waste from Thailand. The Court order dated June 12 puts an end to the trial, following interception of hazardous waste at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals last year.

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD), in collaboration with the Customs and Excise Department staff had intercepted four containers containing imported goods during November and December in 2017. The importer had claimed that the containers comprised of liquid crystal panels. Upon inspection, the officials found that they contained hazardous e-waste including waste flat panel displays. The market value of the intercepted goods was estimated at around $290,000. The intercepted containers were immediately returned to the port of loading. Also, EPD initiated prosecution against the importer for violating the regulations of Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

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According to EPD officials, flat panel displays are considered highly hazardous, as they contain heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. They are classified under chemical waste category. In accordance with WDO directives, it is offensive to import hazardous waste into the country without possessing a valid permit. Also, recycling operators producing chemical waste are required to register with the EPD.

Earlier in March this year, the Hong Kong Court had fined several recycling sites across the country for handling electronic waste in a manner not conforming to the country’s waste disposal laws. The enforcement operation had revealed illegal collection, storage and handling of electronic and other hazardous waste by these facilities.

The EPD urged businesses not to indulge in illegal imports and exports of hazardous waste.