Taiwan sets tough fines for recipients of pork parcels from overseas
台灣對接收海外豬肉郵包者處以重罰
| TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan will fine recipients of illegal pork parcels from overseas NT$200,000 (US$6,400) the first time and NT$1 million for a second offense, regardless of whether they knew there was pork inside, reports said Thursday.
The Ministry of Agriculture said it changed the rules on Nov. 6 in order to prevent African swine fever from entering the country. An outbreak of the virus in Taichung last month led to a temporary ban on the transportation and slaughtering of pigs, but no other cases were found. In the past, people receiving the parcels would deny knowing anything about the contents, but that explanation will no longer be acceptable, per CNA. People who are fined will be allowed to file an appeal with the administration, officials said. Customs will step up border checks and deal with travelers who refuse to hand over their carry-on luggage for inspection. Online commerce platforms must post warnings for consumers or face fines from the Ministry of Agriculture. At sea, the Coast Guard will intensify action against smugglers, mobilizing radar and drones to prevent the entry of pork products. Ships docking at Taiwan’s harbors will not be allowed to offload food waste, government officials explained at Thursday’s weekly Cabinet meeting. |
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| Matthew Strong Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2025-11-13 |
