To ensure accurate measurement and transaction fairness for the public purchasing barbecue ingredients and holiday goods ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (the BSMI) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) conducted spot checks on weighing scales. The BSMI announced today (Sept. 15) that the inspection recorded a compliance rate of 99.9%, successfully safeguarding consumers' wallets for the holiday.

During this special holiday inspection program, the BSMI dispatched personnel to conduct spot checks at 150 locations across Taiwan, covering traditional markets, hypermarkets, supermarkets, and scenic areas. A total of 4,512 weighing scales were inspected, while only one was found to be non-compliant. Inspectors immediately affixed a "suspension-from-use" marking to the non-compliant device at the site. The BSMI will continuously monitor this case until the scale is repaired and passes reverification or is scrapped. If a business operator is found to continue using a non-compliant weighing scale without authorization, a fine of NT$15,000 to NT$75,000 may be imposed in accordance with the Weights and Measures Act.

The BSMI emphasized that weighing scales used in market transactions are measuring instruments subject to mandatory verification under the law. They must undergo verification to ensure measurement accuracy before they may be legally placed on the market for sale or use in transactions. For weighing scales in circulation, the BSMI conducts annual market inspection programs and

unannounced inspections. If a weighing instrument is found to be inaccurate or not properly verified, the BSMI will take action in accordance with relevant regulations. Through pre-market verification and post-market inspections, the BSMI takes a two-pronged approach to safeguarding consumer rights.

To ensure that citizens can shop accurately and fairly at all times, the BSMI conducts routine checks year-round. Moreover, dedicated inspection projects are launched during Taiwan's three major traditional holidays-the Lunar New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival-to reinforce market oversight. Furthermore, the BSMI encourages public supervision. If consumers notice a commercial scale lacking the official verification mark (Picture as attachment file) , or suspect inaccurate weighing during a purchase, they are urged to report the issue via the hotline at 02-23434567. The Bureau will promptly dispatch personnel to investigate, ensuring the rights of both buyers and sellers are fully protected.

Responsible Division: Metrology Technology Division
Contact Person: Deputy Director Chen
Telephone No.: +886-2343-1700#5211
Email: [email protected]