People's Daily, Beijing, January 29 (Reporter Du Haitao) In 2023, customs authorities nationwide strictly enforced entry-exit animal and plant quarantine, rigorously guarded against invasive alien species, and detected 75,000 species-times of quarantine pests. From incoming postal items and items carried by travelers, 1,186 alien species in 3,123 batches were seized, including 296 species and 44,000 individuals of "exotic pets."

　　Customs strengthened monitoring and early warning, built monitoring networks, and promptly carried out risk assessments and emergency responses. Quarantine inspection was strictly enforced, and the application of intelligent equipment and technologies was deepened to further improve inspection effectiveness. The General Administration of Customs, together with the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate, carried out operations to punish the crime of illegally introducing invasive alien species in accordance with the law. Joint prevention and control was strengthened, information sharing and mutual law enforcement assistance were enhanced, and a synergy for prevention and control was formed. Publicity and education efforts were intensified, and through policy interpretation and case warnings, a favorable atmosphere of society-wide participation in prevention and control was created.

　　This year, customs will focus on building a port-based prevention and control system against invasive alien species, further advance the three-year special action to strictly prevent the invasion of alien species, crack down hard on the illegal introduction of alien species, and actively contribute to building a Beautiful China.