Customs issues alert: Souvenirs featuring animals and plants may violate species protection laws and threaten biodiversity conservation

In the picturesque city of Münster, the Main Customs Office is taking a proactive approach to ensure the protection of endangered species and the local ecosystem.

Traders abroad may claim their goods are legal, but often their own profit is their primary concern, and wildlife protection regulations are seldom considered in souvenir sales. To address this issue, the Customs Office in Münster advises against buying souvenirs made from animals or plants to protect endangered species.

Customs in Münster is also responsible for enforcing regulations to prevent the entry of invasive species into the country. Invasive species, if brought in by travelers, can pose a threat to native species by displacing them. Last year, four travelers at Münster/Osnabrück Airport violated wildlife protection regulations upon entering Germany. Customs initiated administrative proceedings against three of these travelers, and criminal proceedings against one for ivory possession.

Violations of wildlife protection regulations are pursued strictly. If travelers ignore the rules, their items may be seized and they could face high fines or penalties. The Main Customs Office Münster can be contacted for inquiries regarding administrative or criminal proceedings related to wildlife protection violations.

To educate themselves about wildlife protection considerations for souvenirs, travelers are encouraged to visit the website www.artenschutz-online.de. The website offers valuable information about wildlife protection when buying souvenirs.

For more information about customs procedures and regulations, travelers can contact Verena John at the Main Customs Office Münster. You can reach her at Telephone: 0251/4814-1306, Email: [email protected], or visit their website at www.zoll.de. The website provides additional resources and information about customs in Münster.

By being mindful of the potential environmental impact of their souvenir purchases, travelers can help protect endangered species and preserve the natural beauty of Münster and the world.

Customs issues alert: Souvenirs featuring animals and plants may violate species protection laws and threaten biodiversity conservation