Travellers entering the United States are being reminded to exercise caution when bringing items from abroad, as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continues to enforce hundreds of laws designed to safeguard public health, national security, agriculture, wildlife, and the economy.
CBP works alongside more than 40 federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to ensure that unsafe, illegal, or harmful products do not enter the country.
According to the agency, CBP officers stationed at ports of entry serve as the first line of defence against threats that could endanger American communities, workers, children, and domestic plant and animal life.
The agency noted that many items prohibited from entering the United States may appear harmless at first glance. However, some products pose significant risks to public safety, health, or national interests.
Among the items strictly prohibited are dangerous toys, vehicles that fail to meet U.S. safety standards, bush meat, and certain illegal substances, including absinthe and Rohypnol.
Other goods fall under restricted categories, meaning travellers must obtain special permits or licences from relevant federal agencies before bringing them into the country. These include firearms, selected fruits and vegetables, animal products and by-products, as well as certain live animals.
CBP advises travellers to verify the status of any item they intend to bring into the United States before departing their country of origin. Officials say early consultation can help avoid delays, confiscations, penalties, or other enforcement actions at the border.
The agency stressed that protecting the nation’s borders goes beyond immigration enforcement and includes preventing potentially harmful products from reaching American communities.
As international travel continues to grow, CBP is encouraging visitors and returning residents alike to familiarise themselves with U.S. import regulations to ensure a smooth entry process.
When traveling into the U.S., please note that bushmeat is prohibited to bring into the country. Before you come back from your trip abroad, check CBP's restricted items list about the items you plan to bring back. ➡️ https://t.co/02J14VASbn pic.twitter.com/xUXZwpKccR
— CBP (@CBP) June 3, 2026
