Maldives: Moderate Risk — watch out for coral and marine wildlife.
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Moderate Risk: Coral and marine wildlife. Coral, shells, and other marine wildlife products are restricted or banned under CITES rules, even as souvenirs.
Maldives: Moderate Risk — watch out for coral and marine wildlife. Coral, shells, and other marine wildlife products are restricted or banned under CITES rules, even as souvenirs.
A specific category of souvenir here carries real export restrictions or requires documentation — check the note above before you buy.
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.
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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