With help from Leader Mutual Freight (LMF), the “river pandas” of China swam their way to Siberia. The arduous journey involved crossing mountains, navigating bridges, and keeping a tight schedule so the freshwater sturgeons of China could safely reach the rugged terrain of the Russian province of Siberia.

Sturgeons have survived since the Late Cretaceous era more than 100 million years ago. They are part of the Acipenseridae family, containing two subfamilies, 7 genera, and 27 species alive today. Found only in the northern hemisphere, 8 endangered species exist in China. Exporting sturgeons require intimate knowledge of Chinese customs and regulations, as well as nimble flexibility and fastidious response to any possible contingencies during the process, which was why LMF was chosen for this challenge.

In May 2022, LMF’s Chongqing branch accepted a client’s request to take charge of its delivery of sturgeons to a fish farm in Siberia. It was the company’s first attempt at exporting sturgeons; with many files missing for customs requirements, LMF first prepared a backup proposal regarding the Siberian aquaculture farm destined for the sturgeons, then prepared materials for shipping an endangered species based on global accords like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). We were able to quickly communicate with the client on amendments needed in filing for customs, and helped gather the necessary paperwork for processing. We also worked with China’s customs and reported back on the delivery process.

By serving as a bridge between the company and the Chinese customs office, LMF was able to help these sturgeons leave China and find a new home in Siberia. Our professional knowledge, hardworking attitude, and responsible mindset culminated in newfound respect from the client and customs agents.