Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Coral & Seashells → Malaysia
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
Coral & Seashells may require documentation or declaration
Details
All stony corals are CITES Appendix II listed, requiring export permits for international trade — coral souvenirs purchased in tourist shops likely lack these permits. Giant clams (Tridacna species) are also CITES Appendix II. Sea turtle shell produc
Documentation required
- Documentation may be required
Leaving with this item
Corals are CITES-listed — taking coral out of Malaysia requires permits, while ordinary non-protected seashells move freely in small quantities.
Practical advice
Malaysia restricts import of Coral & Seashells. Cultural-property protection is bilateral: both origin export rules and destination import rules apply. Carry provenance documentation demonstrating lawful acquisition and (where applicable) origin-country export licence. Museum-loan and dealer-import categories operate under separate frameworks with pre-approved dealer registration.
Customs authority
Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) · https://www.customs.gov.my