Smuggling of endangered animals and plants from abroad has been increasing, posing serious challenges to Chinese authorities.

In 2012 and 2013, customs investigated 299 cases involving smuggling of endangered species, about 20 percent higher than the previous two years. A total of 384 suspects were arrested, according to the General Administration of Customs.

"Due to the temptation of huge benefits and strong market demand, we are facing a grim task to combat such crime," said Xu Wenrong, deputy director of the anti-smuggling bureau at the General Administration of Customs.