On Sunday, China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) issued a stark warning about the growing environmental risks posed by invasive species entering the country through global trade, mail shipments, and illicit exotic pet imports. The ministry highlighted how such practices could jeopardize China’s ecological balance, economic stability, and biodiversity.
In its statement, the MSS emphasized that invasive species, often inadvertently introduced via agricultural products, timber, flowers, and packaging materials, pose significant threats to local ecosystems. The ministry cited the red imported fire ant as a key example. Native to South America, this ant species can stow away in imported timber, soil, or plants. Once in a new environment, it reproduces rapidly, forming large colonies that disrupt local ecosystems and cause extensive agricultural damage.
The MSS also warned against individuals falsifying product declarations to bypass customs regulations. In one notable instance, customs officers inspecting a shipment declared as an “electric kettle” discovered 979 live Messor barbarus ants concealed within the package. These ants, known for their adaptability and rapid reproduction, represent a serious risk of biological invasion in China.
The ministry noted that a lack of awareness has contributed to the unintentional spread of invasive species. For instance, the Canadian goldenrod, introduced to China as an ornamental plant, has since become a problematic invader due to its robust reproductive ability. It now disrupts local ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and threatening agricultural productivity.
Adding to the concern is the rising popularity of exotic pets among young people. These pets, which include arthropods (spiders, scorpions, and beetles), reptiles (snakes and lizards), amphibians (frogs and salamanders), and other unusual animals, are often smuggled into the country. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, customs intercepted more than 200 cases of exotic pet imports, including species like the Galápagos centipede, long-horned rhinoceros beetle, and shiny burrow scorpion.
The MSS warned that invasive species and exotic pets not only endanger ecological security but also place significant economic strain on the country. The direct and indirect losses caused by invasive species in China are estimated to reach 200 billion yuan ($27.3 billion) annually, with agriculture being the most affected sector.
“Global trade creates opportunities for the spread of alien species across borders,” the ministry noted, urging citizens to comply with laws prohibiting the private import, transport, or release of foreign species. Additionally, the MSS called for increased public awareness of the risks posed by invasive species and exotic pets, emphasizing the need to preserve China’s ecological and economic stability.
