These products have high mercury content The government has again warned against the use of three Goree whitening cream products, saying they contain excessive mercury that can cause damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, memory deterioration, concentration difficulty, impaired hearing and vision, and changes in taste function. In severe cases, renal failure may occur. Hong Kong Customs inspected a consignment declared as face cream arriving at Hong Kong International Airport from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, via Singapore to Hong Kong on August 27, 2025. PINDUTIN PARA SA DETALYE Upon inspection, a total of 2,880 boxes of the three types of regulated mercury-added whitening creams with an estimated market value of about $63,000 were detected and detained. The case was handed over to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) for follow-up action. The EPD sent the samples of the creams to the Government Laboratory for testing, and it was revealed that the mercury content in the three whitening cream products reached 24 000 parts per million, 25 000 ppm and 28 000 ppm respectively. Basahin ang detalye! According to the Mercury Control Ordinance (MCO) (Cap. 640), cosmetics with mercury content exceeding 1 ppm is regulated mercury-added products. The three types of whitening creams contravened the MCO. As a result, the EPD initiated prosecution against the related offenders. In the past, the authorities have repeatedly warned against the use of the same brand of whitening cream, after a number of Filipina domestic helpers had to be taken to hospital in 2022 after showing signs of mercury poisoning. Customs and the EPD remind members of the public that under the MCO, any person importing, exporting, manufacturing or supplying regulated mercury-added products commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year upon conviction. The proprietor of the company that imported the batch of whitening creams was charged with importing regulated mercury-added products and was fined $10,000 at the Eastern Magistrates' Courts on March 2. Customs and the EPD remind members of the public to observe the following tips when purchasing and using cosmetic products: • Do not buy or use cosmetic products of unknown composition or from doubtful sources; • Stop using the cosmetic products and seek medical attention immediately if feeling unwell after use; and • Purchase cosmetic products at reputable retail shops. Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account: (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002). Members of the public may report any suspected regulated mercury-added products to the EPD hotline (2838 3111).