In theimport and exportIn trade, it is not uncommon for commodities involving endangered species to be punished, especially in theCosmetics & Personal Carefield. Since the raw materials of products involve endangered species, they are often investigated by the customs for failing to provide certificates of permission for import and export or species certificates in accordance with laws and regulations.

[Case 1]

On March 5, 2021, Shanghai Customs seized a batch of cosmetics containing ingredients from endangered wildlife sturgeon. The goods were declared for export by a Shanghai company under the product name Brand X Moisturizing Caviar Concentrated Essence Mask with a quantity of 4,290 pieces. The product contained sturgeon caviar extract, and sturgeon is listed in Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Cosmetic companies should submit export permits for endangered species. The party involved was investigated by Shanghai Customs Anti-Smuggling Department for suspected inaccurate tariff code declaration affecting license supervision of export-filed goods.

[Case 2]

On May 12, 2021, a batch of imported cosmetics entered through Huanggang Port. The first item in this batch contained ginseng ingredients, which are listed in the CITES Appendix. The company failed to provide either the Import Permit for Endangered Species or the Non-Catalogued Wildlife Species Certificate and was intercepted by customs. The dutiable value on the declaration was 126,000 yuan, with an administrative penalty fine of 14,400 yuan.

Basis for administrative penalty: As stipulated in Article 15 (3) of the Regulations of the Peoples Republic of China on the Implementation of Customs Administrative Penalties, for those that affect the management of international license documents, a fine of not less than 5% but not more than 30% of the value of the goods shall be imposed.

When engaging in import and export trade, it is necessary to pay attention to whether the goods contain endangered wild animals, plants, and their products and handle the corresponding license documents to avoid unnecessary economic and time losses and even bear corresponding legal responsibilities.

For cosmetics known to contain the following ingredients in import, please consult for certification:

Ginseng, Ginkgo, Wild Soybean, Sturgeon, Bletilla striata, Cactus, Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia cerifera), Cordyceps, Aloe, etc.!