Court of Appeal reserves judgment in glove firm defamation appeal

The Court of Appeal has taken the matter under advisement following arguments in a defamation dispute involving allegations of tax evasion made against glove industry players.

At issue is whether the Hong Kong company and its director defamed Smart Glove International and a Singapore associate by making public claims regarding tax compliance. The High Court previously ruled against the defendants, finding their allegations constituted defamation.

The appellants are now seeking to overturn that judgment, contesting the lower court's findings on the merits of the case. The Court of Appeal's decision on the appeal remains pending as judges deliberate on the legal arguments presented by both sides.

The case highlights ongoing disputes within the glove manufacturing sector, where competitive pressures have occasionally spilled into legal confrontations. Industry observers are watching the outcome closely, as it could have implications for how companies in the sector handle public statements about competitors.

No timeline has been announced for when the appellate court will deliver its judgment.