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The controls at Swiss airports and border crossings frequently reveal that seemingly harmless souvenirs or luxury items are made from materials derived from endangered species or plants. In Switzerland, the import of products such as ivory, alligator leather, and other products from protected species is either prohibited or allowed only with a special permit in accordance with the CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. To raise awareness of these regulations, the Swiss Customs Museum presents the exhibition „Conservation Affects Us All.“ This exhibition will open on April 5, 2026, marking the beginning of the 2026 season.
Illegal Imports and Their Consequences
Employees of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG) regularly confront the illegal importation of goods. Among the most frequently seized items are accessories and watch straps made from reptile leather, as well as precious Shahtoosh wool shawls. Violations of import regulations can lead to the confiscation of goods and the imposition of fines. In addition to controls, prevention is of great importance. For this reason, BAZG employees receive specialized training and are supported by specially trained dogs that are trained to detect illegal goods. Collaboration with Swiss authorities and international partners is also crucial in combating the illegal trade in protected species.
The exhibition at the Cantine di Gandria, implemented with the support of the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (BLV), offers visitors the opportunity to engage intensively with the topic of conservation. It explains how the CITES agreement works, the risks associated with illegal trade, and the role of customs in enforcing these regulations.
Insights into the World of Conservation
A portion of the goods seized by customs is stored in the BLV warehouse, while some of these objects are displayed at the Swiss Customs Museum. These include a small table with a leg made from an elephant foot, ivory carvings, animal skulls, stuffed snakes, and orchid soups. The exhibition features multimedia content, a game for children, and a large display board that takes visitors on a journey of discovery regarding conservation. Among the most striking exhibits are two elephant tusks that are the size of a human.
In addition to the exhibition „Conservation Affects Us All,“ visitors can also view the exhibition „A Story of Poverty and Persecution“ as well as the photo exhibition „Migration.“ The Swiss Customs Museum will open its doors on Sunday, April 5, 2026, and will be open from Tuesday to Sunday between 12:00 and 17:00 until October 18, 2026. Admission is free.
