Ask a QuestionHong Kong shopping is one of the city's real attractions, however, there are still some tips that you could learn to ensure you a happy shopping experience in Hong Kong.
♦ Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme
The Quality Tourism Services Scheme, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), helps travelers identify trustworthy stores and restaurants. Stores and restaurants certified under this scheme must pass a rigorous annual assessment, demonstrating that they:
Only stores and restaurants that meet the scheme's requirements can display the QTS quality mark. The HKTB also provides consultation services for customers who shop at stores and restaurants certified under the QTS scheme. Additionally, the number of certified merchants has been steadily growing over the years, covering a wide range of business types, including high - end department stores, local specialty shops, and various dining establishments. The number of QTS - certified merchants has been expanding. In recent years, more local specialty stores, art galleries, and niche fashion boutiques have joined the QTS scheme. This expansion provides tourists with a wider range of reliable shopping options, not just limited to large - scale department stores and well - known chains. It also helps promote the overall quality of the shopping environment in Hong Kong.
♦ Duty-free Prices
As of July 1, 2024, for self - used articles carried by residents aged 18 or above entering the Chinese mainland from Hong Kong, the duty - free quota has been increased from 5,000 yuan to 12,000 yuan. At ports with duty - free shops, passengers can also purchase a certain amount of duty - free goods at the port duty - free shops. The total value of duty - free goods purchased at the port duty - free shops and self - used articles carried from overseas should not exceed 15,000 yuan. This change means that tourists can bring back more items without having to pay additional duties, providing more shopping flexibility.
♦ Compare Prices
It's advisable to visit different stores to compare the prices of the items you want to buy. Large department stores and chain stores usually have clearly marked prices. In contrast, small shops and street market stalls often don't display prices, presenting you with an opportunity to practice your bargaining skills. When bargaining, it's common to start by making an offer that is about 30 - 50% lower than what you suspect the actual price might be, depending on the item. For instance, in the Ladies' Market in Mong Kok, you can often get a great deal on clothing and accessories. If an item is initially priced at HKD 200, you might be able to negotiate it down to around HKD 100 - 120 with some polite haggling.
♦ Be Aware of Parallel Imports
In response to some issues related to parallel imports, the Hong Kong government has introduced stricter regulations. Sellers of parallel - imported goods are now required to more clearly inform consumers about the limitations of warranties and after - sales services. Additionally, for certain high - risk products like medical devices and electrical appliances, parallel imports must meet specific safety and quality standards. This aims to better protect consumers from potential risks associated with parallel - imported products.
♦ Avoid Bait and Switch
Some merchants may display ambiguous prices or ask for a deposit, and then claim that only inferior or more expensive products are available. To avoid such bait - and - switch tactics, always shop at stores with clearly marked prices. You should also compare prices before purchasing to better understand the product's value and features. Thoroughly verify and understand the product you're buying and its price. We recommend patronizing only merchants certified under the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) scheme. In recent years, the Hong Kong Consumer Council has received an increasing number of complaints related to bait - and - switch tactics, especially in some electronics and jewelry stores. By choosing QTS - certified stores, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering such unethical business practices.
♦ Check Your Product
Before paying, carefully examine the product and ensure that all the accessories that should be included are present. Check again before leaving the store. This is particularly important for electronics and high - value items. For example, when buying a camera, make sure it comes with the battery, charger, memory card (if promised), and any other accessories listed. Some unscrupulous sellers may try to sell the camera body only and charge extra for accessories that are normally included in the package.
♦ Check Your Receipts
Always ask for a sales receipt (although street stalls sometimes don't provide one). Check to ensure that all details and verbal agreements are fully listed on the sales receipt. Make sure the product details listed match the item you purchased. The receipt serves as proof of purchase, which is essential for returns, exchanges, or warranty claims. In case of a dispute, having a detailed receipt can greatly help you resolve the issue. For example, if you find a defect in the product later and want to return it, the store may require the receipt to process the return.
♦ Credit Card Payments
Most stores in Hong Kong accept credit cards. Before signing, check the credit card receipt and remember to keep it. Credit card companies and/or issuing banks may charge a currency conversion fee for overseas purchases. Check with your credit card issuer for more details. Some credit cards offer special benefits for overseas transactions, such as cashback or waived currency conversion fees. For example, certain banks' premium credit cards provide up to 5% cashback on all overseas purchases, which can be a great saving if you're planning to do significant shopping in Hong Kong.
♦ Refund Protection Scheme (Registered Shops) for Inbound Tour Group Shoppers
Group visitors who patronise a registered shop arranged by Travel Industry Council (TIC) members are entitled to full refund protection if they are dissatisfied with their purchases. To apply for a refund, visitors may contact their tour organisers or receiving agents.
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