Hong Kong consumer watchdog urges better elderly services after 9,206 complaints
Complaints received over past three years include one from woman who spent HK$400,000 on beauty treatments, Consumer Council says
Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has called on businesses to improve services for elderly customers after receiving more than 9,200 complaints in the past three years, including one from a woman who spent HK$400,000 (US$51,294) on beauty treatments.
“The council urges traders to provide tailored support for senior consumers,” chief executive Alaina Shum Jiu-fai said.
The watchdog also advised elderly consumers to consider their actual needs when tempted by promotions, avoid excessive purchases and ensure they clearly understand sales terms before buying anything.
Between 2023 and 2025, the watchdog received 9,206 complaints from “senior consumers”, defined as those aged 55 or above, with 2024 seeing the highest number at 3,827. Most cases – 1,837 or 20 per cent – related to disputes over prices and charges.
In one case, a woman in her seventies told the council that she spent more than HK$300,000 on treatments at a beauty parlour between 2022 and 2023. But despite unfinished sessions, staff continued to pressure her to buy more, without mentioning remaining services or their expiry dates.