Australian biosecurity officers have warned travellers to declare all plant-based products after a popular Thai-brand herbal inhaler carried by a passenger arriving at Cairns Airport was found to contain six plant species of biosecurity concern.
In a Facebook post, Australian Biosecurity shared a photograph of a Hong Thai inhaler and highlighted the case as a reminder that even traditional remedies can pose risks to the country's strict biosecurity system.
The agency said the traveller avoided a substantial penalty by complying with declaration requirements. The agency did not disclose the identities of the six plant species. Under Australian law, travellers must declare certain food, plant material and animal products upon arrival.
Declared goods are assessed by biosecurity officers and may be inspected before entry is permitted.
Travellers may also voluntarily dispose of prohibited items in designated airport bins.
