Totschnig warns of vacation souvenirs: Customs seize massive quantities of prohibited goods at Vienna Airport

Customs particularly often seized exotic fruit, such as mangoes or citrus fruits. The majority of seizures involved passengers entering Austria from Turkey, Egypt, Thailand and Vietnam. On the occasion of the tour, Totschnig warned of the consequences if regulations were disregarded by travelers, because souvenirs from third countries pose a danger to our nature, to agriculture and to forestry.

What was seized at Vienna Airport

Decorative items are also prohibited, for example cushion covers made from animal fur or snake leg. The carrying of items from abroad that threaten biodiversity is also strictly regulated. Furthermore, the import of animal products such as honey or meat from countries that are not part of the European Economic Area (EEA) is prohibited.

State Secretary at the Ministry of Finance Barbara Eibinger-Miedl (ÖVP) made an appeal to travelers to inform themselves accordingly in advance. Only those who obtain an export permit in the holiday country in advance can apply for an import permit from the species protection authority in Austria. The procedure takes several weeks; the permit to bring animals, plants or seeds must be presented upon entry into Austria.

Which rules travelers must observe

Depending on the offense, administrative penalties, disposal fees or even criminal consequences of varying degrees may be imposed. After seizure by customs, the confiscated goods are collected by a disposal company and destroyed. After examination by official veterinarians, animals often find a new home at Schönbrunn Zoo.

According to information provided by the ministry, invasive species cause damage of around twelve billion euros annually in the EU, for example through crop failures or the increased need for plant protection products. The EU-wide campaign "#PlantHealth4Life" is intended to raise awareness. Travelers should find out in advance which goods they are allowed to import and which permits are required.

Consequences for nature and agriculture

The authorities emphasize that plants and cut flowers can also introduce diseases or pests that affect domestic crops. Therefore, customs intervene not only in the case of protected animal species or meat products, but already with seemingly everyday souvenirs such as brought-along herbs or seeds.

Both politicians advocated consciously refraining from risky souvenirs while on vacation and, when in doubt, opting for local products instead. Anyone who violates the regulations must not only reckon with penalties, but also endangers domestic biodiversity and agricultural yields.

The "#PlantHealth4Life" campaign is aimed at consumers throughout the EU and seeks to inform about the risks that can arise from travel mementos. In addition, the Austrian customs authorities and the species protection authority provide information about permitted and prohibited goods.