TNAG-1954-FCO40-2783-Trade-of-rare-and-endangered-species-in-Hong-Kong-1989 — Page 202

PJMAPH

CONSUMPTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES

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WHAT EFFORTS ARE BEING MADE BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO PREVENT

THE IMPORTATION INTO HONG KONG OF RARE AND ENDANGERED SPECIES FOR

USE AS RESTAURANT FOOD?

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The import, export and possession of endangered species are

controlled by law in Hong Kong and their import for use as food is prohibited there.

Checks are made at all entry points into Hong Kong to prevent the illegal importation of animals and plants. Inspections are also

conducted in local restaurants, shops and markets to ensure that no

protected animals are offered for sale as food. In 1988, 1,121

visits were made resulting in 25 seizures and prosecutions.

The import, export or possession of endangered species whether

alive, dead, in parts or as derivatives are prohibited except when

authorised by licence. Licences for rare and endangered species that could conceivably be used for gastronomic purposes are rely granted. On the few occasions on which they are granted, it is only to appropriate organisations to facilitate the exchange of specimens for breeding

purposes. No licences have ever been issued to permit the

consumption of such specimens and none will be.

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WHAT HAPPENS TO LIVE ANIMALS SEIZED IN RAIDS ON RESTAURANTS?

Live seizures of endangered species of animals and birds are, if indigenous to Hong Kong, normally released into the wild. Species not indigenous to Hong Kong are returned to countries of origin or

offered to conservation centres for breeding or educational

purposes.