It is one of the essential gestures of our holidays. Pick up a small key ring or figurine bearing an image of a city you visited, or even pick up a shell found on a beach bend. But in some cases, this seemingly harmless memory can cause you a lot of trouble. Indeed, some countries regulate very strictly what you can (or can’t) bring back in your suitcase. Focus on good practice in this area.
Natural elements (wild flowers, shells, sand, etc.)
Respect and preservation of the environment are the rules to remember. On the beach, whether it’s sand, shells or pebbles, be careful what you pick up. In France, any practice that weakens the banks is strictly controlled. Article L.321-8 of the Environmental Code states that “material extraction […] are restricted or prohibited when they directly or indirectly threaten the integrity of beaches, coastal dunes, rocks, marshes, […]“. Obviously, collecting sand, pebbles and shells from the beach is prohibited under fines. In fact, the authorities may tolerate the collection of these elements in small quantities.
Flowers and plants that decorate the shoreline are subject to a stricter ban. No tolerance is allowed because this particular flora only grows in certain places. Taking it out would mean disrupting entire ecosystems. Fines are also a challenge. damaging these natural resources can result in a fine of up to €150,000.damage the conservation of non-cultivated plant species“Remembers the government website Service-Public.fr.
With this legislation, France is in line with some of its European neighbors such as Italy. In August 2019, two French tourists were arrested in Sardinia trying to leave the island with 40 kilograms of sand. An offense for which the couple could face up to six months in prison. Other countries are more protective, banning the collection of volcanic rocks or corals that are important links to local biodiversity, such as the Galapagos archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Collecting plants is prohibited in national parks and reserves
Similar rules apply to mountain flora. In particular, it is forbidden to collect plants in national parks and reserves. More generally, many plants are protected by the Washington Convention, which since 1975 prevents trade in endangered species (flora and fauna). The purpose: ensure that international trade in wild animal and plant specimens does not threaten the survival of their species. As such, this text protects more than 30,000 plant species (including desiccated corals) with different levels of measures (general prohibitions, restrictions or protective measures).
What about plants bought abroad?
It’s always tempting to buy a beautiful plant found in this Havana market. But before you see your souvenir confiscated at customs and incur a fine, remember one rule: not everything can be brought into French territory. Thus, strict measures are applied to plants and their products (fruits, vegetables, flowers, etc.) depending on the phytosanitary risks (parasites, invasive species, etc.). Some plants are prohibited, others are strictly regulated, in particular, by obtaining a phytosanitary certificate. If you have the slightest doubt, do not hesitate to consult the French customs website, where the current regulations are detailed.
Cultural items (antiques, local pieces, etc.)
Beware of figurines and collectibles that you would like to bring back from a foreign country. In Thailand, the export of antiques and works of art, for example, is subject to strict regulation. All representations of the Buddha, whether antique or reproduction, are strictly prohibited. Fraud can also lead to heavy penalties. “You have to be careful where you buy your souvenirs. Buying at the local market, under the coattails on the street or at the market is not always a good idea.warns Figaro Emmanuel Llop, lawyer specializing in tourism, aviation and entertainment law for Équinoxe Avocats. “For example, in Egypt, near archaeological sites, there is no way to know whether the objects sold are fakes or they are simple copies. If one does not take a big risk to buy a key ring, it is not the same when it comes to balances. “My advice. don’t buy yourself with unclear terms”summarizes Emmanuel Llop.
Many international texts regulate trade in cultural property, such as the 1970 UNESCO Convention, ratified by France, which calls on States Parties to take measures to prohibit and prevent the illicit traffic in cultural property.
Food (meat, dairy, etc.)
It’s always tempting to pack a piece of cheese to enjoy during the holidays. However, this good intention can quickly turn into a very bad idea. Because your food memory may face some mishaps if you come to travel by plane, for example. “Baggage may be delayed or take a difficult route. Fracture is also possible. As a result, if you have perishable food items, they can open and spread in your luggage.warns Emmanuel Llop.
Although it is possible to carry food without major restrictions on most airlines, certain conditions must be met. For greater health safety, the product must be in its original packaging and have an expiration date. On the other hand, many companies advise against transporting fragile foods such as fresh meat or dairy products. “In one of my cases, a man brought some fish from Portugal. His luggage was delayed. Later, it was destroyed due to the smell and part of it dripping. He sued the airline, but his claim was dismissed because he was transporting this product at his own risk. The responsibility was not from the company, but from him., explains the lawyer specializing in tourism law. Obviously, dry goods will save you a lot of inconvenience.
It is also good to be familiar with the regulations of transit countries. Some of them may have additional rules that prohibit the import of specific foods, such as exotic fruits. If you have doubts about the transported goods, do not hesitate to declare them to the competent authorities to avoid possible problems.
Source: Le Figaro
