The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department reminds people not to bring orchids into Hong Kong without a licence on return from visits to other places. Last year saw 33 seizures of orchids at customs checkpoints during the Chinese New Year, more than half of the annual total.

The figure was less than the 64 cases recorded over the same period in 2005. However, bringing in orchids without a licence is common practice among travellers returning from the Mainland, particularly around the Chinese New Year.

As some orchids face the threat of extinction, trade in highly endangered wild orchids, such as slipper orchids, is prohibited under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals & Plants Ordinance.

The import, export, re-export or possession of other wild orchids, including their parts and derivatives, requires a licence, which must be obtained in advance from the department.

Artificially propagated orchids, including their parts and derivatives, also require a valid export permit issued by the exporting country prior to their import and export.

Anyone contravening the above provisions is liable to a maximum $5 million fine, two years' jail and mandatory forfeiture of the specimens upon conviction.

For details, call the Government hotline, 1823, or click here.