ENG-2015 — Page 138

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Commerce and Industry

Trade in Endangered Species

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance implements the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). It regulates the import, export, re-export, introduction from the sea or possession of endangered species. The commercial import, export and re-export of highly endangered species are prohibited, and international trade in less endangered species is subject to licensing requirements.

The ordinance is administered by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and enforced by both that department and the Customs and Excise Department. It provides for a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment of up to two years. In 2015, the departments issued 23,475 licences and certificates and initiated 179 prosecutions.

Websites

Business consultation e-platform: www.gov.hk/bizconsult

Commerce and Economic Development Bureau: www.cedb.gov.hk Consumer Council: www.consumer.org.hk Create Hong Kong: www.createhk.gov.hk Environment Bureau: www.enb.gov.hk Film Development Council: www.fdc.gov.hk Film Services Office: www.fso-createhk.gov.hk Intellectual Property Department: www.ipd.gov.hk Special Effects Licensing Unit: www.createhk-esela.gov.hk

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