Endangered species: A valid export permit from the exporting country is required before import or export of artificially propagated orchids.

In the first 11 months, there were 203 seizures of tourist items made from endangered species, down 7.7% on the same period last year, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

However, cases concerning orchids brought back from the Mainland without a licence rose from 79 to 102.

Other items commonly seized at customs checkpoints without licences include stony coral skeleton, American ginseng root, crocodile meat and crocodile skin products.

The department urged travellers abroad to pay more attention when buying wildlife products for souvenirs.

People are advised not to purchase wildlife souvenirs if they have doubts about whether they are made of endangered species.

They should also be mindful of claims they do not need licences for certain endangered species because they may not be given true and up-to-date information.

Licences required

Under the Animals & Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance, the import, export or possession of endangered animals and plants, including their parts and derivatives, requires a licence which must be obtained in advance from the department. The control applies to tourist items as well.

As for artificially propagated orchids, a valid export permit from the exporting country is required before import or export of these items.