On 27 December, a Malaysian passenger who was heading to Taiwan was fined NT$30,000 (approx RM4,060) after failing to declare fried chicken in their luggage. This incident was confirmed by Taipei Customs.
According to Sinchew, the passenger took a flight with JC International Airlines and landed at Taoyuan Airport at around 3pm. Unfortunately, the traveller used lane number 6, which is designated for those who have nothing to be declared.
Later on, the passengers’ bag was intercepted for inspection by customs officers and two pieces of fried chicken weighing 160 grams were found. They were wrapped in pieces of paper towel when discovered.
Picture for illustration purposes only | Source: Twitter
A spokesperson from the department said fried chicken is classified as a meat product and therefore is strictly forbidden to be brought into Taiwan. Besides that, fresh fruits and vegetables are also on the list as well.
This policy was enforced to prevent pests or diseases from being introduced to Taiwan. Travellers are urged to throw them away in the quarantine bin if they had brought these products along. It is understood that the screening has become tighter following the outbreak of swine flu in China.
Since many travellers have been fined recently, the authorities would like to remind fellow passengers to leave their unfinished in-flight meals onboard and refrain from bringing them into the country.
Picture for illustration purposes only | Source: United Airlines
In fact, announcements are being made to remind travellers and those who have inquiries to proceed to counter number seven for assistance to avoid getting fined. For your information, snacks, vacuum-packed meat products, and biscuits are some of the items that have landed passengers in trouble.
So guys, if you know any of your friends or family members who are travelling soon, please tag them in the comments!
Also read: Woman Gets Fined RM2,000 For Bringing In-Flight Apple Through Customs
