Shanghai customs files case on ivory, yellow sandalwood smuggling

SHANGHAI -- Shanghai customs authorities said on Friday that its anti-smuggling bureau has filed a case to investigate a violation of importing endangered species products based on a seizure of goods earlier this year.

The case relates to the seizure by Shanghai customs officers of 16 products suspected of being made from endangered species, namely ivory and yellow sandalwood, during a routine inspection in August.

The officers conducting the inspection found 14 ivory-made painting scrolls weighing 406 grams and two yellow sandalwood ornaments weighing 6 kg. The importation of such products is restricted in China.

The import consignee was unable to provide the relevant certificate for importing endangered-species related products, resulting in the items being impounded.

The Chinese government suspended imports of ivory and all ivory products in 2015 and ended the commercial processing and sales of ivory at the end of 2017 as part of its commitment to protecting wild animals.