Full ban on ivory trade takes effect

December 31, 2021

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals & Plants (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 was fully implemented today, banning the import, re-export and commercial possession of ivory, the Government announced.

 

It explained that the local ivory trade, except for antique ivory, is now prohibited given that all licences to possess ivory expired on or before December 30.

 

According to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals & Plants Ordinance, antique elephant ivory means a piece of elephant ivory that was removed from the wild and significantly altered from its natural state for jewellery, adornment, art, utility or musical instruments before July 1, 1925.

 

Moreover, the ivory was acquired by a person after the alteration in such altered state that required no further carving, crafting or processing to effect its purpose and does not include an elephant hunting trophy.

 

Traders possessing antique ivory for commercial purposes must prove that the ivory meets the aforesaid definition. Examples of acceptable proof of antique ivory include a qualified appraisal or scientifically approved aging methods carried out by an accredited laboratory or facility.

 

The Government stressed that any individual importing, re-exporting or possessing ivory not in accordance with the law will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and 10 years’ imprisonment. Additionally, the specimens will be forfeited.

 

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department, the Customs & Excise Department and relevant departments will continue enforcement against smuggling and illegal trade of ivory, it added.

 

Call 1823 or browse the dedicated webpage for more information.

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