In a new South China Morning Post we learn today that "Apple appears to have tightened its sales policy for Hong Kong as it did last year with another custom tailored restriction to deter scalpers from getting their hands on the much-awaited launch next month of its iPhone 8 model.

The sales policy in the Hong Kong store reportedly states that Apple will not 'accept returns for online orders placed on, and after August 15th, 2017.' Apple's online stores in mainland China still offer customers both free delivery, and return services."

The policy may be temporary in nature, apparently paving the way for the launch of a new iPhone, said Zhao Ziming, an industry analyst in Beijing. "It shows Apple's confidence on the new handsets as it believes the new iPhones will be in short supply initially," said Zhao. "It's coming up with these tactics to fend off scalpers."

The report further noted that "The company may have taken the extra step in Hong Kong because the city's duty-free retail industry and cheaper currency makes it particularly susceptible to scalpers.

As 2017 marks the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple fans are anticipating a blockbuster product, and the company is wary that scalpers will be out in force. The new model, which is speculated to feature a full screen at US$1,000 apiece, may be priced between 15 per cent to 20 per cent higher in mainland China."

You could review the full Hong Kong store policy here.

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