Not just responsible for protecting Hong Kong against smuggling and drug trafficking, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) collects and protects revenue on dutiable goods, and protects intellectual property rights, consumer interests and legitimate trade.
At the Career Forum, representatives from the department will be giving out information for two basic entry ranks: inspector of customs and excise, and customs officer.
While requirements for the two posts vary, applicants will need to pass similar recruitment stages for each, such as written examination, group discussion, leadership exercise and selection interview, says Fan Chi-kong, senior staff officer (training and development) cum commandant of the Customs and Excise Training school.
“All candidates are also required to pass a physical fitness test, including standing long jump, threading, isometric strength test and an 800-metre run,” he says. “Full preparation is important for passing our stringent recruitment process.”
Successful candidates then undergo residential training at the Customs and Excise Training School in Tuen Mun. Trainee inspectors undergo a 24-week induction programme, while customs officers receive 15 weeks of training.
The training covers Hong Kong’s customs and excise procedures and legal knowledge, and includes foot drills, firearms training and personal development. Inspectorate trainees also receive instruction on supervisory skills and leadership.
Members of the department are subject to discipline under the Customs and Excise Service Ordinance. They are also required to wear a uniform, carry firearms and work irregular hours.
“If you want to join the department, you must have a high degree of integrity and a strong sense of commitment to serving the community,” Fan says. “Our job is people-oriented and we are looking for competent individuals with sound judgment, good communication skills and emotional control. This will enable them to cope with the challenges ahead and serve citizens with professionalism and respect.”