Regulators warn of challenges with mainland-only goods ordered online

Macau residents are being urged to exercise caution when purchasing mainland China–only products through cross-border e-commerce platforms, following a rare joint warning from consumer watchdogs in Macau, Guangdong and Hong Kong.

The coordinated advisory, led by the Guangdong Consumer Council, noted mounting risks in the fast-growing Greater Bay Area (GBA) online retail ecosystem, as cited in a China Daily report.

Local consumers have increasingly faced issues related to product standards mismatches, complicated return logistics, and costly refund procedures.

Goods made for sale exclusively in mainland China are not required to meet Macau’s consumer safety regulations, the authorities noted.

This discrepancy, along with lengthy and burdensome return processes, has left many buyers with little recourse when faced with faulty or damaged items, according to the report.

Shipping fragile goods like electronics across borders has also led to a spike in damage claims.

In one case, a Hong Kong resident had to haul a broken 65-inch television through Customs by hand after his online complaint was dismissed. The ordeal drew widespread attention online and reignited concerns about fragmented consumer protection across the GBA.

The Guangdong Consumer Council reported 538,900 consumer complaints in the first half of this year, recovering nearly 223 million yuan in compensation.

Though cross-border purchases are not broken out specifically, officials said complaints involving “mainland-only” items and return difficulties are on the rise.

Authorities recommend consumers review product standards before purchase, opt for inspection options when available, and avoid ordering restricted items such as frozen goods or perishables. Times Reporter