As the Lunar New Year approaches, many Hong Kong residents are traveling north to visit family and enjoy local flora, including popular plants like orchids, as well as specialty products such as American ginseng, dried seahorses, Gastrodia elata (tianma), and dendrobium.
The Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department (AFCD) has issued a reminder today (Jan. 20) for citizens returning to Hong Kong not to bring in endangered plants and animals without the necessary permits.
The AFCD noted that some species are threatened by over-exploitation, making their trade subject to regulations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Hong Kong implements these regulations through the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance. Under this law, the import, export, re-export, or possession of endangered species, including parts and derivatives, is regulated by a permit system.
Violating these regulations is illegal, even if the species are not intended for commercial use. Offenders can face fines of up to HK$10 million and imprisonment for up to 10 years, in addition to confiscation of the goods. Last year, approximately 550 cases involving endangered species were reported, including live orchids, ginseng, dried seahorses, tianma, dendrobium, and listed endangered shark fins. Recently, the AFCD has intercepted several cases of residents attempting to illegally bring orchids from mainland China back to Hong Kong.
Residents wishing to purchase plant and animal products from outside Hong Kong should verify whether these items are classified as endangered species. Given the challenges in identifying whether products come from regulated species, the AFCD advises against purchasing any items that cannot be confirmed as compliant.
For inquiries about endangered species, citizens can call 1823 or visit the AFCD website.
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