What happened in Guangdong on February 23?

Authorities intensified holiday safety checks on Day 7, expanding inspections and raiding storage points. Dongguan reported about 500 kg of illegal fireworks seized, and other cities penalized unlicensed sellers. The focus was preventing accidents during peak celebrations and disrupting illegal supply chains across city networks.

How does this affect Hong Kong residents?

Fireworks possession in Hong Kong requires a licence, so cross-border purchases carry legal and safety risks. With tighter Guangdong enforcement, inspections on return trips may increase. We suggest avoiding personal buys, choosing licensed displays, and checking venue advisories for crowd control updates during the holiday period.

What should small retailers do right now?

Keep a written compliance file: licences, supplier records, and inventory audits. Train staff to refuse unlicensed stock and to document inspections. Build a daily log of holiday safety checks and keep disposal contacts handy. These steps reduce penalties and speed recovery if operations are paused by inspectors.

Could enforcement change accident and insurance trends?

Yes. Fewer illegal fireworks in circulation can reduce injuries, fires, and small property claims. Insurers may see lower claim counts, while municipalities handle fewer fire calls. The benefit depends on whether the Lunar New Year fireworks crack continues beyond the holiday and keeps unlicensed stock out of neighborhoods.

Law and Government

February 23: Lunar New Year Day 7 Sees Guangdong Fireworks Crackdown

ByDanny Kontos February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

February 23, the seventh day of Lunar New Year, brought a sharper Lunar New Year fireworks crack across Guangdong. Authorities stepped up holiday safety checks, with Dongguan seizing about 500 kg of illegal stock and other cities penalizing unlicensed sellers. For Hong Kong, the move affects cross-border shopping, event planning, and small traders’ risk. We explain what happened, why it matters, and what investors should watch this week. It also signals stricter Guangdong enforcement and more illegal fireworks raids during peak celebrations.