LAREDO, Texas – Over the weekend, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted nearly 300 live plants in two separate incidents at the Laredo Port of Entry. The plants were found hidden within vehicles attempting to cross into the United States from Mexico.

Protecting American Agriculture

Port Director Albert Flores emphasized the importance of CBP’s mission in preventing the introduction of harmful agricultural products. He stated, Preventing the introduction of harmful agricultural products, including live plants and soil, is a crucial part of CBP’s mission. These seizures play a vital role in safeguarding American agriculture from potential plant pests and diseases not currently present in the U.S.

Significant Seizures

In the first incident on March 16, CBP officers selected a 2014 Honda CR-V for further inspection and discovered a large number of live plants wrapped in paper hidden throughout the vehicle. The plants were concealed under the floor mats, inside the glove box, within the seats, and even in the spare tire compartment. A total of 272 live plants with soil were confiscated. The driver received a $1,000 civil penalty, and the vehicle was seized by CBP officers.

Just two hours later, another vehicle, a Chevrolet 1500, was referred for secondary inspection. CBP officers found 19 undeclared potted plants hidden under the seats. A $300 civil penalty was issued for the attempted importation of the plants.

Strict Regulations and Consequences

Live plants entering the U.S. must have proper documentation, including phytosanitary certification, and must be imported through a designated United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Inspection Station. Soil and compost are strictly prohibited due to the potential risk of introducing harmful pests or diseases.

Travelers attempting to bring in prohibited agricultural items face potential delays and fines ranging from $300 to $1,000. CBP agriculture specialists and officers continue to remain vigilant in safeguarding U.S. agriculture by preventing the introduction of harmful pests and diseases.

Stay Informed

For more information on CBP’s agriculture mission and regulations, visit their website.

Upholding Border Security and Agricultural Protection

CBP’s efforts at the Laredo Port of Entry demonstrate the agency’s commitment to upholding border security and protecting American agriculture. By intercepting undeclared live plants, CBP helps prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases that could pose significant risks to the nation’s agricultural industry. Strict regulations and penalties serve as deterrents against illegal importation, reinforcing the importance of compliance with agricultural guidelines at all U.S. ports of entry.

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