Examples of unexpected things that cannot be brought to different countries

Crossing the border often becomes a rather uncomfortable process, especially at the time of items inspection. And it is much sadder when problems arise at this stage due to an attempt to carry certain things and objects - some can be taken with you with restrictions, while others cannot be taken at all. But in a number of countries there are such strange bans on the import of certain items that it is difficult to believe in their existence. Here are the ten unexpected things that can not be carried to different countries.

• 1. Singapore: chewing gum

  One would never think that chewing gum can disturb someone? But it turns out it seriously complicates one’s life in Singapore. So, there at the legislative level it is forbidden to import chewing gum. The main reason for this decision was the struggle for cleanliness: in a hot climate, an adhesive substance stuck in an indecent place is very difficult to remove from the same sidewalk and building wall. Moreover, there were vandals who thought of sculpting it on the door of the subway car, which often ended in failures in the operation of the subway. That is why an attempt to import gum and the desire to chew it on the territory of Singapore will end in a large fine.

• 2. Australia: unquarantined animals

  Few people remember that almost 70 years ago, in 1956, the Summer Olympic Games were held in two places at once. So, almost all types of competitions were held in Melbourne, Australia; but equestrian competitions were held in the Swedish capital of Stockholm. And it happened because the organizers of the Olympic Games, even before they began, faced with local laws: which prohibit the importation of animals into Australia without serving six-month quarantine. Today, this rule also works for our smaller brothers from a number of states that are considered by the government to be potentially dangerous in terms of veterinary diseases.

• 3. Australia: soil

  Another interesting ban is currently working on the green continent. We are talking about the law, according to which soil from other continents cannot be imported to Australia. Moreover, it is forbidden to transport even any items, such as shoes, that can carry the remains of soil. In addition, upon arrival, it is necessary to indicate on the arrival card whether the person has visited farms or rural areas in other states during the last month.

• 4. New Zealand: bicycles and toys on wheels

  Similar to the aforementioned Australian, there is also a New Zealand ban on the import of foreign soil - they are also reverent about the protection of the unique local flora. In addition, you will not be able to bring even your own bicycles or children's toys on wheels to New Zealand. And all because the latter may contain soil particles saturated with microorganisms and seeds from other states and continents.

• 5. New Zealand: musical instruments

  Another interesting ban on imports into New Zealand is related, oddly enough, to art. So, musical instruments cannot be brought into the territory of the state, and all because there is its own well-established production. In fairness, it is worth clarifying that there is an exception in this legislation: tourists will be allowed to import their guitar or violin if they commit to take this instrument back.

• 6. Finland: cars with anti-radar

  There is a ban on importation into Finland, however, it applies more to those who enter by car. Those cars that are equipped with anti-radar will not be allowed to enter the border - these gadgets are under the strictest ban. If an intruder with a radar detector in a car is caught at customs, the device will be subject to immediate confiscation and destruction, and the inattentive owner will have to pay a fine from 100 to 500 euros.

• 7. Switzerland: fake Swiss watches

  Actually, there is nothing surprising in the fact that the legendary "Swiss" watches, which are famous for their quality, are a popular object for making fakes, especially since they are bought. However, the owner of such an accessory, going to Switzerland, will have to leave it at home, and all because the local authorities are kind to one of their main brands. To date, for more than 10 years, the state has a ban on the import of counterfeit goods that are given out for "Swiss" watches.

• 8. African states: plastic bags

  Most states of the African continent have long introduced a ban on the import of plastic bags into their territory. By the way, their manufacture and sale are even prohibited on the territory of the countries themselves. For example, Kenya enforces this law very strictly: the production of such products can result in a prison term of up to four years. The government of African states is thus trying to take care of nature's perseverance, since it has long been known that polyethylene does not decompose for hundreds of years.

• 9. Jamaica: coffee

  Perhaps there is no such country where it will be impossible to find a real coffee lover. And Jamaicans are no exception in this respect. However, bringing coffee from other countries to the island is strictly prohibited. At first glance, given that the locals are ready to drink an invigorating drink at any time of the day and in large quantities, such a ban seems strange. But the reason for it is completely pragmatic: Jamaica has enough coffee of its own production, so foreign goods will be confiscated, and a fine will be imposed on its owner.

• 10. Madagascar: perfumery

  In Madagascar there is an equally interesting ban, also associated with local production. So, it is prohibited to import any perfumery into the territory of the island. And all because the state is the world leader in the production of vanilla, and a large number of factories are located throughout the country that produce the corresponding perfume oil. Therefore, a ban was introduced so as not to create unnecessary competition for local producers.