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Brazil · Moderate Risk

Brazil Souvenir & Export Rules

Brazil: Moderate Risk — watch out for wildlife products and gemstones.

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Brazil at a glance

Moderate Risk: Wildlife products and gemstones. Wildlife products and certain wood items are restricted under CITES rules; keep receipts for gemstones.

Frequently asked questions

Are there souvenirs I shouldn't buy or bring home from Brazil?

Brazil: Moderate Risk — watch out for wildlife products and gemstones. Wildlife products and certain wood items are restricted under CITES rules; keep receipts for gemstones.

What does "Moderate Risk" mean?

A specific category of souvenir here carries real export restrictions or requires documentation — check the note above before you buy.

Will customs actually check this when I fly home?

Enforcement varies, but wildlife products (CITES-protected items), cultural antiquities, and anything requiring a permit are exactly what customs and airport security are trained to look for — both on departure and on arrival.

Does this apply to every souvenir shop in Brazil?

Reputable shops selling genuinely restricted items (like real ivory or protected coral) are rare and often illegal themselves — but "as seen in the market" is not proof an item is legal to export. When in doubt, ask for documentation or skip it.

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