Travel smart: bringing back wooden and bamboo souvenirs

Souvenirs from your travels can be treasured reminders of your trip, but did you know they can also carry hidden pests?

Carved masks and decorative pieces made from untreated bamboo or wood or that include bark pieces can carry invasive species, larvae, or eggs that pose a serious threat to Canada's forests, agriculture, and environment.

Non-processed wood and bamboo products may introduce non-native pests or harmful organisms into Canada. Once here, these pests can spread quickly, disrupting ecosystems, damaging crops, and even harming wildlife.

This ripple effect may have serious economic consequences, affecting industries like forestry and agriculture, raising the cost of goods like lumber and food, and leading to costly and restrictive control measures.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), together with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), regulates the import of non-processed wood and bamboo products, including untreated souvenirs, furniture, wood packaging like crates, bamboo torches, decorative items containing bamboo, and more to help prevent the introduction of harmful pests.

Invasive species, such as emerald ash borer, have been introduced into and spread within North America due to the movement of untreated wood and bamboo products.

Best practices when bringing wooden and bamboo souvenirs into Canada:

1. Make sure it's treated properly.

   Souvenirs made from wood or bamboo should meet international treatment standards, like heat treatment or fumigation, to ensure any pests or diseases have been eliminated.

   Are you unsure of what's safe? Check out our list of commodities exempt from regulations. Choose souvenirs made from materials like plywood or particle board, or wooden components that are bark-free and less than or equal to 1.5 cm in thickness (diameter) as they are less likely to carry risks. Go for bamboo souvenirs that have undergone significant processing, such as kitchenware and woven mats. Untreated or non-processed wood or bamboo souvenirs, like carved decorations with or without bark greater than 1.5 cm in thickness or bamboo torches, pose a higher risk.

2. Always declare your items at the border.

   When you arrive in Canada, always declare any wooden or bamboo souvenirs. CBSA officers working with the CFIA will assess your items to ensure they meet import standards. Failing to declare them or falsely declaring them could result in your items being confiscated.

Next time you pick up a wooden or bamboo souvenir, remember that you are not just bringing home a keepsake, you may be introducing an invasive species into Canada. Be aware of the requirements and do your part in helping protect Canada's forests, wildlife, and industries.

Have more questions?

The CFIA's National Import Service Centre (NISC) is here to help.