Multiple journalists report books, maps, DVDs and other media materials confiscated upon leaving China

Nov 1, 2015

Numerous foreign journalists moving out of Beijing in the past year report that they have been discouraged by moving companies from shipping out any potentially “sensitive” books, maps, globes, DVDs or other printed materials; in some cases, such materials have been confiscated by customs authorities at the Tianjin port, resulting in long delays in reporters’ household goods arriving at their destination. When contacted, representatives from three different moving companies in Beijing all said that anyone with a “J” visa is subject to particular scrutiny from customs inspectors. One reporter who shipped personal effects this year included notebooks in the shipment; the reporter suspects that all his notes may have been photocopied or photographed. In light of these reports the FCCC advises members to take precautions to safeguard their printed materials and notes. Further details on this practice can be found here.