Kaohsiung Customs (KHC) announced that it launched a joint inspection operation with Kaohsiung Branch, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA) on November 10 to prevent the invasion of African Swine Fever (ASF). Working with the quarantine detector dogs for on-site checks, officials are intensifying inspection of suspicious cargoes in an all-out effort to prevent the illegal import of pork products.

KHC explained that all maritime express cargo undergoes 100% x-ray inspection prior to clearance. Since the first domestic ASF case was reported, the Customs immediately assigned additional personnel to conduct x-ray scanning, screen high-risk cargo, and subsequently increase the ratio of physical examinations. Since October 23, the Customs has seized cases involving suspected breaches of quarantine regulations at express handling units, including prepared chicken legs and pet food containing chicken ingredients. These will be transferred to APHIA for regulatory penalties.  

KHC further stressed that if online purchases by the public are seized containing pork products from epidemic areas, the involved cargo will be confiscated and destroyed. Additionally, the importers will face imprisonment for up to seven years, and a fine of up to NT$3 million may also be imposed. The public shall stay alert when making purchases and must not try to skirt the law.

Finally, KHC stated that it will continue to intensify inspections of express cargo and will irregularly collaborate with APHIA detector dogs on sniffing operation to enhance border inspection. The Customs also urges the public to refrain from purchasing pork products and related animal and plant products online to jointly safeguard the nation’s agricultural and livestock industry.

Division: Customs Division II
Contact: Mr. Chang
Tel: 07-8213685 #109