The Australian Border Force (ABF) has warned Australians attempting to import cannabis or CBD oil without permission that their items will be seized at the border and they may face prosecution.
The warning follows an increase in a number of cannabis products being intercepted by ABF officers, such as hemp or CBD gummies, oils and skincare products claimed to be for therapeutic purposes.
ABF assistant secretary, trusted trader and trade compliance, Brett Cox said the trend is concerning.
“Cannabis-containing products can only be imported into Australia if permission has been granted prior to the goods arriving in Australia by the Office of Drug Control.
He added: “Individuals who unlawfully import products containing cannabis may face large fines or even imprisonment. These products are controlled under the Customs Act to help ensure the safety of the Australian public.”
Cannabis products are not permitted under the personal importation scheme, with only licensed sponsors being able to import cannabis products for medicinal purposes.
Some hemp products can be imported without permission under the approval for the importation of hemp seeds and hemp-derived products guidelines.
Assistant minister for customs, community safety and multicultural affairs Jason Wood warned unauthorised products can be harmful to the community.
He added: “People who import these products are not only wasting their money, they risk prosecution. Anyone purchasing goods from overseas has a responsibility to check if they can legally be brought into Australia.”
