Customs discovers fraud: Chinese bed linen labeled as cotton!

Customs discovers fraud: Chinese bed linen labeled as cotton!

A huge customs operation in Helmstedt! Twelve tons of Chinese bed linen kept the officials at the main customs office in Braunschweig on their toes. The reason? Wrong labeling! During a routine check of only two of a total of 775 boxes, it was noticed that the information on the labels did not match the actual goods. Instead of the specified 100 percent cotton, the bed linen was made from 100 percent polyester. A clear case of misleading!

The bed linen, which arrived in Germany via the port of Hamburg, was immediately examined. The Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (Laves) was alerted and requested a sample. The entire container was then unloaded and officers began checking each box. With the support of 35 volunteers from the Technical Relief Agency, the bed linen was counted, photographed and documented. The result was clear: the textile fibers confirmed the incorrect labeling and the bed linen had to be given new, correct labels.

A logistical feat

This incident shows how important accurate information is in the trading world. Customs officials not only uncovered the defective goods, but also ensured that the correct information went on the labels. A logistical feat that took not only time but also resources. The inspection and relabeling of bed linen is clear evidence that customs remains vigilant and protects consumers!