Taichung Customs has indicated that the Mid-Autumn Festival consistently marks a peak period for inbound passengers attempting to bring illegal meat-containing mooncakes or purchasing meat-based souvenirs through cross-border online shopping. This year, the classification of countries such as Montenegro as African swine fever-affected regions leaves Asia, particularly Taiwan and Japan, as the only areas currently free from the epidemic. This underscores the ongoing severity of the African swine fever outbreak and the substantial risk it poses for introduction into Taiwan, which cannot be underestimated.
To prevent the entry of meat products contaminated with the African swine fever virus, Taichung Customs will continue to collaborate closely with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture (referred to as APHIA). We will implement stringent enforcement measures, including 100% X-ray inspections of inbound passengers' carry-on and checked baggage. Any violations will be referred to the APHIA for legal action, with potential fines reaching up to NTD$1 million. The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid any attempts to bypass these regulations to avoid penalties. For detailed information, please visit the Customs Administration of the Ministry of Finance website (https://web.customs.gov.tw) and refer to the sections "Travelers"/"Preventing African Swine Fever".
Taichung Customs also urges travelers to carefully review ingredient labels before purchasing products abroad and to confirm whether items ordered from online shopping platforms are being shipped from overseas. For any inquiries, please visit the APHIA website (https://www.aphia.gov.tw/ws.php?id=4502), or contact their consultation service hotline at 0800-039-131. Additionally, if you are entering the country, you may consult with the APHIA’s quarantine counter at the airport. Voluntarily surrendering illegal products at quarantine counter will result in an exemption from penalties. Together, we can prevent the spread of African swine fever, safeguard the domestic pig industry, and ensure the sustainable development of our agricultural and livestock sectors.
Contact information: Inspection Section, Inspection Division. TEL: 04-26155172