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 25 seizures of orchids at customs checkpoints during the Chinese New Year. This was less than the 33 cases recorded over the same period a year earlier.

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.

Any one contravening the provisions is liable to a maximum $100,000 fine, one year's jail and mandatory forfeiture of the specimens upon conviction.