Shipments of dried shark fins seized in Hong Kong

Press Release

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)

06. March 2017

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Shipments of suspected scheduled dried shark fins seized by AFCD

A joint operation was mounted between the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and the Customs and Excise Department against illegal importation of shark fins in January and February this year.

An AFCD spokesman today (March 6) said that dried shark fins of suspected scheduled hammerhead sharks and oceanic whitetip sharks weighing about 1,280 kilograms in total were found in four containers from India, Egypt, Kenya and Peru without any relevant permits attached at the Cargo Examination Compound in Kwai Chung Customhouse in the joint operation. The suspected scheduled shark fins were seized by the AFCD and an investigation is under way.

There are currently eight shark species, including three hammerhead sharks, oceanic whitetip shark and others, listed in Appendix II to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and regulated under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap 586).

The import, export or re-export of specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years. The specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction.

The spokesman reminded the public to comply with the regulations and not to import or export specimens or products of endangered species from dubious sources. To enquire about the control of endangered species and to report suspected irregularities, the public can call 1823 or visit the website www.cites.hk.

Source: HKSAR