(Eagle News)–The Department of Foreign Affairs is reminding Filipinos traveling to South Korea of the restrictions being enforced by its government when carrying animal products into their country.
In a statement, the DFA said based on an advisory from the Korea Immigration Service–Ministry of Justice, the carrying of animal products like raw meat, processed meat, canned meat, eggs and poultry products, milk and dairy products, pet food and supplies to South Korea is restricted and must be reported or declared at the quarantine office of the port of entry.
The DFA said the restrictions, which aim to prevent the spread of highly-infectious diseases, such as African swine fever, foot and mouth disease, and avian influenza under South Korea’s Contagious Animal Diseases Prevention Act, have been in place since June 1.
“All Filipinos entering South Korea as visitors, workers, or residents are advised to refrain from bringing restricted items in their hand carried or checked-in luggage,” the DFA said, noting that hand-carried and checked-in luggage of passengers are subjected to security screening at the airport terminals.
The DFA said those who fail to report carrying animal products at airports and seaports could be fined up to KRW 10,000,000, or the equivalent of P428,571.04.
Those who would fail to pay the fine could be prohibited from entering Korea or be denied visa extension, the DFA said.
