AFCD busts 50 ivory products in Yau Tsim Mong store

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) officers seized 50 suspected elephant ivory products from a shop during a Monday morning operation in the Yau Tsim Mong District. 

The AFCD stated that they had previously received a complaint regarding a store in Yau Tsim Mong that was suspected of selling products made from elephant ivory, which is banned in Hong Kong.  

The AFCD sent out officers yesterday (Jun 5) to investigate the store and discovered 50 products suspected to be made from elephant ivory, which have been seized for further investigation.  

AFCD spokesman states that the government has been committed to the protection of endangered animals and has banned the import, re-export, and commercial possession of elephant ivory, except for antique elephant ivory in Hong Kong, since December 31, 2021.  

The AFCD has also warned the public that enticing customers with free ivory or displaying ivory labeled "not for sale" may also violate the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance.  

The AFCD stated they would remain in close contact with relevant government departments, including the Customs and Excise Department, to continue combating smuggling and the illegal trade of ivory.