With recent reports of bear attacks in Japan, some people have inquired online whether canned bear meat purchased there can be imported into Taiwan. The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (FANCA) specifically reminds the public that parts and derivatives of protected wildlife are strictly regulated under Taiwan’s Act on Wildlife Conservation and international conventions. Taiwanese citizens who wish to import such products into Taiwan must apply for prior approval in accordance with regulations. Violators may be sentenced to imprisonment for up to five years and may also be fined up to NT$1.5 million. The FANCA stated that the Schedule of Protected Wildlife Species designated by the Act on Wildlife Conservation includes all species of the bear family (Ursidae), reticulated pythons, all extant species of elephants, rhinoceroses, Siamese crocodiles, and other protected wildlife species. Their parts and derivatives include animal carcasses, bones, horns, teeth, skin, hair, eggs, or internal organs in whole, partial, or processed form. If travelers have any concerns about purchasing such products during their travels, they are advised to inquire with the seller in advance to confirm the source and legality of the product. Do not purchase products of unknown origin. The FANCA clarified that common items illegally imported into Taiwan include traditional Chinese medicine and health supplements containing tiger bone powder or bear bile powder, seals and carvings made from extant elephant ivory, luxury watch straps and wallets made from reticulated python skin, dried or vacuum-packed cobra meat, as well as canned or processed food products containing Asiatic softshell turtle meat or bear meat, and other parts and derivatives. Although these goods can be legally traded in the stores or markets of certain countries, if they are imported into Taiwan without the permit documentation from the competent authorities, these products will be considered illegal imports and may also be in violation of animal and plant quarantine regulations. The FANCA further reminds the public that if there is a genuine need to import parts and derivatives of protected wildlife, an application should be submitted in advance through the “Ministry of Agriculture Joint Review and Clearance Platform” (https://permit.moa.gov.tw/). If the species are listed in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendices, a CITES Export Permit issued by the exporting country must also be obtained. The item can only be imported into Taiwan after preliminary review by the county/city government and approval by the Ministry of Agriculture, and customs declaration procedures must also be completed. The entire review process takes around three to four weeks. If items are purchased during the travel period and the application is submitted afterwards, it its unlikely that there would be sufficient time to obtain approval. The FANCA reiterates that in accordance with Article 35 of the Act on Wildlife Conservation, parts and derivatives of wildlife shall not be traded or displayed or exhibited in public areas without the approval of the authorities. The aforementioned regulations also apply to online e-commerce platforms and social media channels. Members of the public must not import parts and derivatives of protected wildlife into Taiwan or sell them on online platforms or in stores to avoid violating the law. When purchasing souvenirs during travels abroad, if the products involve wildlife, Taiwanese citizens should comply with the relevant domestic regulations and jointly uphold the international conservation image of Taiwan. For any questions regarding the items to be imported into Taiwan, please check the FANCA’s official website or call for advice in advance.
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