As Valentine's Day approaches, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Specialists are preparing to inspect floral imports at ports of entry. Flowers from Mexico are a popular gift during this time.
"We encourage all travelers who plan to cross the border with Valentine’s related flowers and goods to consult the CBP website to learn more about rules and regulations," stated Hector Mancha, CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations. "This is one of the busiest times of the year for flowers and CBP agriculture specialists are working hard to prevent potentially harmful plant pests and foreign animal diseases from entering the U.S."
Travelers buying floral arrangements or cut flowers in Mexico should inform their florist to avoid using prohibited plants such as chrysanthemums, choisya, murraya, cedar, and juniper. Additionally, plants, seeds for planting, and certain fresh produce like mangoes, oranges, mandarins, and grapefruit are not allowed for personal use entry into the U.S.
Prohibited items also include products containing pork, raw poultry, and fresh eggs. CBP agricultural specialists conduct daily examinations to prevent plant pests and diseases from affecting U.S. agriculture.
The public is reminded by CBP to declare all plants, flowers, groceries, prepared foods, medication, alcoholic beverages, and spirits when traveling. Failing to declare prohibited items may result in penalties.
For further information on imports and travel guidelines visit DontPackAPest.com or CBP.gov.
Follow updates from the CBP El Paso Field Office on Instagram @dfoelpaso or on X @DFOElPaso.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 65,000 members dedicated to safeguarding travel and trade while ensuring national security through innovative measures.