Hong Kong customs seize live turtles suspected to be endangered species
Hong Kong customs officers seized live turtles suspected to be regulated endangered species from two parcels imported from the United States. The parcels were declared to contain soft toys and building blocks. The case has been referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for f
Hong Kong customs officers have seized live turtles suspected to be regulated endangered species, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government announced on 29 October 2026.
Through risk assessment, customs officers inspected two parcels imported from the United States to Hong Kong. The parcels were declared to contain soft toys and building blocks. After inspection, customs officers found the batch of live turtles suspected to be regulated endangered species inside the parcels.
The case has been referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Chapter 586), any person who imports, exports, or possesses endangered species without a licence under the ordinance commits an offence. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is a fine of HK$10 million and imprisonment for 10 years. The items involved may also be confiscated.
Members of the public can report suspected smuggling activities by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline at 182 8080, by email to [email protected], or via the online form at eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002.