Hong Kong customs intercepted 131 tons of electronic waste (e-waste) and returned it to Japan last Saturday, said the local authority on Monday.

The waste, mainly used computer monitors and television sets, was sent back to Japan on the basis of understanding with the Ministry of Environment of Japan that the waste import in question was in violation of the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) in Hong Kong, said the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) of Hong Kong.

Eight containers packed with e-waste were received on February 12 and then returned to Japan with the assistance of the Japan's relative departments.

The Hong Kong environmental department said import or export of hazardous e-waste without a valid permit issued by the EPD is an offense under the WDO. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of HK$200,000 and six months imprisonment for the first offense.

(Xinhua News Agency March 6, 2007)