There was an increase in the number of cases concerning travellers bringing back tourist items made from endangered species without licence, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

A total of 220 endangered species seizures were made at customs checkpoints from January to November this year, compared to 145 cases for the same period last year.

The department reminded people not to bring into Hong Kong endangered species without a licence on return from visits to other places.

Items commonly seized from travellers at customs checkpoints include orchids, cacti, American Ginseng root, coral skeletons, crocodile meat and crocodile leather products.

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

Don't buy dubious items

Since it is not easy to know which wildlife souvenirs are made of endangered species, people should not buy such items whenever they are in doubt, the department added.

They should also be mindful of claims that licences are not required for certain endangered species because they may not be given accurate and updated information.

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.

Anyone found guilty of importing, exporting or possessing any endangered species without a licence from the department is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million, imprisonment for two years and mandatory forfeiture of the specimens upon conviction.