Prohibited & Restricted Items Policy
AqNova Marketplace Policies & Disclosures
AQNOVA MARKETPLACE
Global Legal Footer Framework
Comprehensive Compliance & Platform Governance Reference
(MASTER)
Complete List of Items Prohibited from AqNova & Items Permitted Only With Documentation, Certifications or Jurisdiction-Specific Approvals
Effective Date: April 7, 2026 | Version 1.0 | Last Reviewed: April 2026 | Arivon Holding Corporation
| Regulatory Frameworks — Prohibited & Restricted Items International Trade: UN Security Council Sanctions Resolutions OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) — US Treasury EU Council Restrictive Measures (various regulations) UK OFSI (Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation) BIS Export Administration Regulations (EAR) — US Dept. Commerce ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) — US Dept. State Wildlife & Nature: CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) US Endangered Species Act | US Lacey Act (wildlife trafficking) EU Wildlife Trade Regulations (Reg. 338/97) UK Control of Trade in Endangered Species (COTES) Regulations African national wildlife protection acts Chemicals: EU REACH Regulation (1907/2006) — SVHC & Annex XVII restrictions US TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) — EPA chemical restrictions Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Basel Convention — hazardous waste & chemicals Rotterdam Convention — prior informed consent for chemicals Health Products: US FDA FD&C Act — unapproved drugs and medical devices EU Medical Device Regulation (2017/745/EU) | IVDR (2017/746/EU) Narcotics: UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances 1971 UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs 1988 Weapons & Arms: UN Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) US Arms Export Control Act | ITAR (22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130) EU Common Position on arms exports | EU Dual-Use Regulation National weapons laws of all operating jurisdictions Cultural Property: UNESCO Convention on Means of Prohibiting Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property (1970) US National Stolen Property Act | EU Cultural Property Regulation Consumer Safety: EU GPSR (2023/988/EU) | US CPSA | UK Consumer Protection Act 1987 Intellectual Property: WTO TRIPS Agreement | Lanham Act (15 U.S.C.) | EU Trademark Reg. Data & Privacy: GDPR | CCPA | Applicable national privacy laws Child Safety: Optional Protocol to UNCRC (child sexual exploitation) 18 U.S.C. § 2258A (CSAM mandatory NCMEC reporting) |
|---|
| IMPORTANT NOTICE THIS POLICY LISTS ITEMS THAT ARE ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED ON AQNOVA (NEVER PERMITTED) AND ITEMS THAT ARE RESTRICTED (PERMITTED ONLY WITH SPECIFIC DOCUMENTATION OR WITHIN SPECIFIC JURISDICTIONS). THIS LIST IS COMPREHENSIVE BUT NOT EXHAUSTIVE. AQNOVA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REMOVE ANY LISTING THAT, IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION, POSES A RISK TO BUYERS, THIRD PARTIES, OR THE PLATFORM — EVEN IF THE ITEM IS NOT EXPLICITLY LISTED HERE. THIS POLICY IS REVIEWED QUARTERLY AND UPDATED IN RESPONSE TO REGULATORY CHANGES. CURRENT VERSION: APRIL 2026. |
|---|
AqNova's Prohibited & Restricted Items Policy establishes the comprehensive master list of products and product categories that are either prohibited from the Platform entirely, or permitted only under defined conditions including documentation, certifications, or jurisdiction-specific regulatory approvals. This Policy applies to all Vendors globally. Violation of this Policy is a material breach of the Vendor Agreement and may result in immediate account suspension, permanent ban, and referral to law enforcement.
AqNova as a curated sustainable marketplace imposes restrictions that go beyond what general e-commerce law requires — because not everything that is legal to sell is consistent with AqNova's values, its Buyer trust, or its sustainability mission. The Prohibited Items list therefore includes both legally required prohibitions (weapons, narcotics, sanctioned goods) and values-based prohibitions that reflect AqNova's identity as a responsible marketplace.
| Section 5.7 — Structure 5.7.1 How This Policy Works — Two-Tier Framework 5.7.2 ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED ITEMS — Category 1 (Zero Tolerance) 5.7.3 ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED ITEMS — Category 2 (Legal but Not on AqNova) 5.7.4 RESTRICTED ITEMS — Permitted With Conditions 5.7.5 Sanctions & Export Control Restrictions 5.7.6 CITES & Wildlife Trade Restrictions 5.7.7 Counterfeit & IP-Infringing Items 5.7.8 Unsubstantiated Health Claims — AqNova Standard 5.7.9 Banned Substances — Global Chemical Restrictions 5.7.10 Restricted Items — Documentation Requirements by Category 5.7.11 Jurisdiction-Specific Restrictions 5.7.12 Policy Review & Update Mechanism 5.7.13 Enforcement — Detection, Delisting & Consequences 5.7.14 Contact Information |
|---|
5.7.1 How This Policy Works — Two-Tier Framework
AqNova's items policy operates on a two-tier classification system:
| Two-Tier Classification System TIER 1 — ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED (Zero Tolerance): Items in this tier are NEVER permitted on AqNova under any circumstances. No documentation, license, or certification will permit listing. Prohibited items are removed immediately without prior notice. Vendors who list prohibited items face permanent account termination and potential law enforcement referral. Covered in Sections 5.7.2 and 5.7.3. TIER 2 — RESTRICTED (Permitted With Conditions): Items in this tier may be listed on AqNova, but only where the Vendor holds the applicable documentation, certification, or regulatory approval, AND where the item is legal in the relevant destination market. Restricted items are geo-blocked where they cannot legally be sold in specific markets. Covered in Sections 5.7.4 and 5.7.10. IMPORTANT NUANCE: A product may be in TIER 1 for one destination market but TIER 2 for another (e.g., certain alcohol products are prohibited in Saudi Arabia but permitted in other markets with documentation). AqNova applies geo-blocking to prevent Tier 1 items (in any specific market) from being listed for or shipped to that market. POLICY SCOPE: This Policy covers: the product category, key sub-categories, and where appropriate, specific substances, species, or item types within each category. This list is comprehensive but not exhaustive. AqNova may treat items not listed here as prohibited or restricted where they pose risks consistent with those described. |
|---|
Category 1 Absolutely Prohibited Items are items whose listing or sale on AqNova constitutes a serious criminal offense, enables harm to persons, exploits vulnerable individuals, or violates international law. No exception applies. Vendors who list Category 1 items face immediate permanent account termination and referral to law enforcement where appropriate.
| CATEGORY 1 — ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED (ILLEGAL — ZERO TOLERANCE) WEAPONS & ARMAMENTS: — Firearms (handguns, rifles, shotguns, machine guns, pistols) including antique firearms capable of firing modern ammunition — Automatic or semi-automatic conversion kits; bump stocks; auto-sears; full-auto trigger components — Ghost guns: unserialized/untraceable firearm components (80% receivers, frame kits, undetectable/3D-printed weapon parts) — Firearm silencers/suppressors — Grenades, mines, explosive devices, and other ordnance — Military / law enforcement grade weapons — Directed energy weapons; electromagnetic pulse (EMP) devices AMMUNITION & EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS: — Firearms ammunition and projectiles — Explosive compounds, detonators, blasting caps, and initiators — Incendiary devices and fire accelerants intended for harm — Improvised explosive device (IED) components NARCOTICS & CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES: — Illegal narcotics (heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA/ecstasy, LSD, fentanyl and analogues, GHB, synthetic cannabinoids, and all Schedule I substances under US CSA; equivalent schedules globally) — Prescription medicines sold without valid prescription / licensed pharmacy authorization — Novel psychoactive substances (NPS / 'legal highs') intended to mimic controlled substance effects — Drug synthesis precursors marketed primarily for drug production DRUG PARAPHERNALIA: — Paraphernalia designed primarily for illegal drug use (pipe designed for crack cocaine; needles marketed with heroin imagery; materials designed to facilitate drug injection, inhalation for illegal use) — note: harm reduction products in jurisdictions where these are legal may qualify under Restricted Items CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL & NUCLEAR (CBRN) WEAPONS: — Chemical weapons agents (nerve agents, blister agents, choking agents) — Biological agents weaponized or capable of weaponization — Radiological dispersal devices or radioactive materials for weaponization — Nuclear weapons components — Dual-use precursors marketed explicitly for CBRN weapon production HUMAN BODY PARTS & REMAINS: — Human organs, tissues, blood for commercial sale — Human remains, skulls, or body parts — Any product derived from unconsented human tissue CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE MATERIAL (CSAM) & CHILD EXPLOITATION: — Any content, product, or material that sexualizes, exploits, or endangers minors — Products marketed to facilitate child grooming or exploitation — Child sexual abuse material in any form, format, or medium [MANDATORY REPORTING: All CSAM reports are immediately referred to NCMEC (18 U.S.C. § 2258A), IWF (UK), and applicable authorities] STOLEN PROPERTY: — Property for which the seller does not hold good legal title — Goods known to have been obtained through theft, fraud, or robbery CURRENCY COUNTERFEITING & FINANCIAL FRAUD INSTRUMENTS: — Counterfeit currency (banknotes, coins) of any jurisdiction — Counterfeit financial instruments (cheques, bonds, securities) — Devices designed to create counterfeit currency or instruments PRODUCTS SUBJECT TO COMPREHENSIVE INTERNATIONAL SANCTIONS: — Products whose export, import, or sale is prohibited by comprehensive OFAC, UN, EU, or OFSI sanctions programs — See Section 5.7.5 for full sanctions framework |
|---|
Category 2 Absolutely Prohibited Items may be legal to sell in some jurisdictions but are prohibited on AqNova because they are inconsistent with AqNova's identity as a sustainable, ethical, and safe marketplace, or because they present unacceptable risks of harm that AqNova will not facilitate regardless of technical legality.
| CATEGORY 2 — ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED (VALUES-BASED — ZERO TOLERANCE) SURVEILLANCE & STALKING TOOLS: — Spyware, stalkerware, or covert tracking software designed to monitor another person without their knowledge or consent — Hidden cameras or recording devices marketed for covert surveillance of individuals without consent — 'Spy' products marketed to track intimate partners or minors without disclosure or consent (as opposed to transparent family safety tools) — GPS trackers marketed for unauthorized vehicle tracking HACKING TOOLS & MALWARE: — Malware, ransomware, spyware, or exploit kits — Remote Access Trojans (RATs) or tools designed to compromise systems without authorization — Credential harvesting tools, phishing kits, or identity theft tools — Network attack tools (DDoS tools, denial-of-service software) NOTE: legitimate cybersecurity research tools for authorized penetration testing may be permitted as Restricted Items with documented professional context — evaluated case-by-case PRODUCTS PROMOTING HATE OR DISCRIMINATION: — Products bearing hate speech, Nazi/neo-Nazi imagery, symbols of supremacist movements, or content that promotes violence or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability — Products glorifying genocide, ethnic cleansing, or crimes against humanity — Merchandise from designated terrorist organizations PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO HARM ANIMALS (Beyond Normal Use): — Products marketed specifically for use in illegal animal fighting (cockfighting spurs, fighting dog conditioning equipment) — Products designed specifically for animal torture or cruelty NOTE: standard hunting equipment, pest control, and veterinary items may qualify as Restricted Items in applicable jurisdictions INVASIVE BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS: — Seeds, plants, or biological materials of invasive species listed as threats to ecosystems under applicable law — Biological agents that pose an ecological or public health risk GRAVE GOODS & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ARTIFACTS: — Archaeological artifacts or cultural property removed from their country of origin in violation of UNESCO Convention 1970 or national cultural property law — Grave goods, funerary objects, or sacred indigenous items PRODUCTS EXPLOITING HUMAN TRAFFICKING: — Products or services that facilitate or glorify human trafficking, forced labor, or sexual slavery — Products designed to restrict a person's freedom of movement without consent (handcuffs, restraints marketed for non-consensual use — note: consensual adult use items may be Restricted) ENVIRONMENTALLY BANNED PRODUCTS: — Products containing substances banned under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) — PCBs, DDT, dioxins — Ozone-depleting substances banned under the Montreal Protocol (CFCs, HCFCs for commercial use) — Products containing asbestos (all forms) RECALLED / PROHIBITED SAFETY ITEMS: — Products subject to mandatory recall that have not been remediated — Products banned by a competent safety authority (CPSC, EU GPSR authority, OPSS, Health Canada, ACCC, etc.) |
|---|
5.7.4 Restricted Items — Permitted With Conditions
Restricted items may be listed on AqNova where the Vendor holds the applicable documentation and the item is legal in the destination market. The full documentation requirements for each restricted category are set out in Section 5.7.10. Geo-blocking prevents restricted items from being displayed or shipped to jurisdictions where they are prohibited or require approvals the Vendor does not hold.
A. Alcohol — Restricted
Alcoholic beverages may be listed on AqNova subject to the following conditions:
Legal in the destination market: alcohol is prohibited in numerous jurisdictions (Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, UAE outside licensed venues, Pakistan, certain Indian states, many Muslim-majority markets). AqNova applies geo-blocking to prevent alcohol sales to prohibited markets.
Age verification: AqNova implements age verification at checkout for alcohol purchases in all markets where online alcohol sales are permitted.
Vendor license: the Vendor must hold a valid alcohol retailer/distributor license in their jurisdiction of establishment. License number must be provided during onboarding.
Labeling compliance: alcohol products must comply with applicable labeling requirements including alcohol content disclosure, country of origin, producer information, and applicable health warnings.
Direct-to-consumer shipping restrictions: US alcohol shipping is regulated at the state level; AqNova applies state-specific direct-to-consumer alcohol shipping restrictions. Not all states permit direct-to-consumer alcohol shipping.
B. Tobacco, Nicotine & Vaping Products — Restricted
Tobacco, nicotine, and vaping products may be listed on AqNova subject to:
Legal in destination market: tobacco product online sales are prohibited or heavily restricted in many jurisdictions. AqNova applies geo-blocking for markets where online tobacco/nicotine sales are illegal.
Age verification: mandatory at checkout in all markets where tobacco/nicotine products are sold.
Flavored product restrictions: flavored tobacco and vaping products are subject to specific restrictions in the US (FDA PMTA for pre-market tobacco product applications), EU (TPD — Tobacco Products Directive 2014/40/EU), UK (TRPR 2016), Canada (Vaping Products Labeling and Packaging Regulations), and others. AqNova geo-blocks prohibited flavored product types by market.
No marketing to minors: listings must not use imagery, language, or styling that appeals primarily to minors.
C. Knives, Blades & Sharp Instruments — Restricted
Kitchen knives, culinary tools, traditional ceremonial blades, and knives with legitimate sporting/outdoor use may be listed on AqNova, subject to:
No fighting knives, switchblades, gravity knives, butterfly knives (balisong), or other bladed weapons primarily designed for use against persons, in jurisdictions where these are restricted.
Geo-blocking: applicable where specific blade types are banned (UK: Section 141A Criminal Justice Act 1988; California: many prohibited blade types under Penal Code § 17235; various international restrictions).
Hunting/outdoor knives: permitted for jurisdictions where lawful. Must not be marketed as weapons.
Age verification: required at checkout in all markets where sale of bladed articles to minors is restricted (UK: minimum age 18 for bladed articles).
D. Prescription Medicines — Restricted to Licensed Pharmacies
Prescription medicines may only be listed on AqNova by vendors who are licensed pharmacies in their jurisdiction of establishment, hold the applicable retail pharmacy license, operate under regulatory supervision, and have verified that the sale of prescription medicines through online marketplaces is permitted in the applicable jurisdictions. AqNova does not permit individual sellers (non-pharmacies) to list prescription medicines. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are permitted with appropriate labeling compliance.
E. Medical Devices (Class I Non-Prescription) — Restricted
Class I non-prescription medical devices are permitted with: applicable conformity marking (CE, UKCA, FDA clearance, ARTG registration, BIS, etc.); Declaration of Conformity; and compliance with destination market-specific registration requirements. See Section 5.5.7 and Section 5.6.17.
F. Dietary Supplements — Restricted
Dietary supplements are permitted on AqNova subject to: cGMP compliance documentation; ISO 17025-accredited CoA for each SKU; compliance with applicable health claim regulations (no disease treatment/cure claims; authorized structure-function claims only in the US); FSSAI license (India); TGA listing (Australia); applicable country-specific registration where required. See Section 5.5.7.
G. Pesticides & Biocides — Restricted
Consumer-use pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, rodenticides) are permitted with: EPA registration number (US-FIFRA); EU Biocidal Products Regulation authorization (EU BPR 528/2012); HSE COPR authorization (UK); CIB&RC registration (India); APVMA registration (Australia). Agricultural-grade pesticides for professional use only are not permitted.
H. Live Animals & Animal Products — Restricted
Certain live animal products are permitted with the appropriate documentation:
Domestic pets: sales of live companion animals (dogs, cats) are not permitted on AqNova. Pet supplies, food, and accessories are fully permitted.
Legally sourced seafood and fish: permitted with Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or equivalent certification, country of origin documentation, and compliance with applicable import/export regulations.
Livestock products: permitted with applicable food safety certifications, country of origin, and veterinary certificates.
Fur and animal skins (non-CITES): fur and skin products from legally farmed or hunted non-CITES-listed species are permitted in jurisdictions where legal, with documentation of legal sourcing. Prohibited in the EU where applicable fur bans apply. Prohibited without documentation in all markets.
Leather products: leather products from legal, non-CITES-restricted animals are permitted with documentation of source. No documentation = no listing.
I. Precious Metals, Gems & Jewelry — Restricted
Precious metals and gemstones are permitted with: country of origin documentation; Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) for diamonds; hallmarking compliance (UK Hallmarking Act; applicable EU standards); conflict-free sourcing declarations. Products from conflict zones without Kimberley Process documentation are prohibited.
J. E-Cigarettes / Vaping Devices — Restricted
Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are subject to jurisdiction-specific restrictions: EU TPD (Tobacco Products Directive 2014/40/EU) compliance; UK TRPR 2016; US FDA PMTA requirements for pre-market approval; prohibition in various countries (India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil). AqNova geo-blocks vaping devices for prohibited markets.
K. Fireworks & Pyrotechnics — Restricted (Consumer Grade)
Consumer-grade fireworks are permitted only where they are legal in the destination jurisdiction, the Vendor holds applicable licenses, and products comply with applicable safety standards. Professional-grade pyrotechnics are prohibited. Geo-blocking applied for jurisdictions where consumer fireworks are illegal.
L. Adult Products (18+) — Restricted
Adult products (sexual wellness, intimate accessories) for adults are permitted on AqNova in markets where legal, subject to: age verification at checkout (18+); no display to minors; compliance with applicable obscenity and indecency laws in destination markets; no marketing involving minors or non-consensual scenarios. AqNova does not permit pornographic content. Adult products are geo-blocked for markets where such products are prohibited.
M. Radiation-Emitting Devices (Non-Medical) — Restricted
Radiation-emitting devices including certain laser products, radio-frequency devices, and ultraviolet lamps are permitted with: FDA performance standard compliance (US 21 C.F.R. Part 1040); EU relevant directives; applicable laser classification and warning labeling. High-powered lasers (Class 3B and Class 4) intended for consumer use are restricted or prohibited in most markets and require enhanced documentation.
N. Hunting & Firearms Accessories — Restricted
Hunting accessories (scopes, binoculars, camouflage clothing, hunting blinds, legitimate hunting knives) are permitted in markets where hunting is legal and regulated. Firearms accessories that function as firearm components (barrels, triggers, stocks for regulated firearms) are geo-blocked to markets where their sale without a firearms dealer license is prohibited. No accessories that assist in circumventing firearm safety regulations are permitted.
A. Sanctions Programs
AqNova does not permit listings of, or transactions involving, goods, services, or payments subject to comprehensive trade or financial sanctions administered by:
US OFAC: comprehensive sanctions programs covering North Korea (DPRK), Iran, Syria, Cuba, Crimea/Donetsk/Luhansk regions (as applicable under current OFAC programs), and SDN list individuals and entities globally.
UN Security Council Sanctions: consolidated list of sanctions targets including arms embargoes, travel bans, and asset freezes applicable to specific countries and individuals.
EU Council Restrictive Measures: EU-specific sanctions including those relating to Belarus, Russia, Iran, Myanmar, and others.
UK OFSI: UK-specific financial sanctions and trade restrictions including those retained from EU law and new UK-specific designations.
AqNova screens all transactions, all Vendor accounts, and all Buyer accounts against current sanctions lists in real time. Products that cannot legally be exported from or imported into the origin or destination country are geo-blocked at checkout.
B. Export Control — Dual-Use Goods
Products that are subject to export controls requiring a government license before export are not permitted on AqNova without verified export authorization. This applies to:
US Export Administration Regulations (EAR, 15 C.F.R. Parts 730–774): goods on the Commerce Control List (CCL) that require an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and a license for export to controlled destinations.
ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations, 22 C.F.R. Parts 120–130): articles on the US Munitions List (USML) — defense articles and services that require a State Department license for export.
EU Dual-Use Regulation (2021/821/EU): goods listed in Annex I that require an EU export license for export to non-EU countries.
UK Export Control Order 2008: UK-specific strategic export controls.
Vendors who believe their products may be export-controlled must contact compliance@aqnova.co before listing to discuss their specific situation.
5.7.6 CITES & Wildlife Trade Restrictions
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates the international trade of certain plant and animal species through a permit system. AqNova's approach to CITES compliance reflects both the legal requirements and AqNova's commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity protection.
A. CITES Appendix Classifications
| CITES Appendix | Trade Status & AqNova Policy |
|---|---|
| Appendix I (most endangered — commercial trade prohibited) | Commercial international trade in Appendix I species and their derivatives is prohibited under CITES. ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED on AqNova. Examples: tigers, elephants (ivory), rhinos (horn), great apes, sea turtles, certain orchids and cacti. NO exceptions for commercial trade. Antique items (pre-1976 and verifiably pre-CITES) may be evaluated case-by-case with full documentation — extremely rare exceptions. |
| Appendix II (trade regulated — may require permits) | International trade in Appendix II species and their derivatives requires CITES export permits from the country of origin. RESTRICTED on AqNova: Vendors must provide valid CITES export permits and import permits where required by the destination country. Examples: many reptiles, certain parrot species, coral, sharks, certain hardwoods (rosewood/dalbergia), seahorses. All documentation must be verified before listing. |
| Appendix III (species protected in specific countries) | Appendix III species require CITES documentation from the listing country where they are protected. RESTRICTED: permits required from the country that listed the species. Examples: certain regional species listed unilaterally by individual CITES Parties. |
| Non-CITES protected wildlife (national law may still apply) | Even where species are not CITES-listed, national wildlife protection laws may restrict their trade. Vendors must confirm compliance with applicable national wildlife laws in their country of origin and the destination country. |
B. Specifically Prohibited Wildlife Products
| WILDLIFE PRODUCTS — ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED The following wildlife-derived products are ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED on AqNova regardless of claimed provenance, age, or documentation: ELEPHANT: Ivory (worked or raw); ivory-inlaid items; ivory carvings. RHINO: Rhinoceros horn and products containing horn. TIGER / BIG CATS: Tiger bone; tiger skin; products from all wild tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, and jaguar. MARINE MAMMALS: Products from whales, dolphins, porpoises, and all cetaceans not subject to recognized sustainable indigenous harvest. Seal products: prohibited in the EU (EU Seal Regulation 1007/2009). SHARK FINS: Detached shark fins (shark finning products). BEAR: Bear bile and bile products; bear gallbladders. PANGOLIN: All pangolin products (pangolin is the world's most trafficked mammal; all species are in CITES Appendix I since 2017). SEA TURTLE: Sea turtle shells (tortoiseshell products); sea turtle eggs. BUSHMEAT: Wild-caught bushmeat from non-domesticated wildlife species. PRIMATE: Products from great apes and other primates. NOTE: Products that appear vintage, antique, or pre-CITES are not automatically exempt. AqNova requires documentary evidence of lawful provenance for claimed pre-CITES items, which AqNova evaluates case-by-case with expert input. In the absence of clear documented provenance, such items are treated as Prohibited. |
|---|
5.7.7 Counterfeit & Intellectual Property-Infringing Items
Counterfeit goods and IP-infringing items are absolutely prohibited on AqNova. This prohibition is covered comprehensively in the Trust, Safety & Marketplace Integrity framework (Section 5.0, Section 5.3 — Anti-Counterfeiting) and the Seller Verification & Credentialing Policy (Section 5.5 — Sustainability Credentialing). For ease of reference, the key elements are summarized here:
| Type of IP Infringement | AqNova Policy & Enforcement |
|---|---|
| Counterfeit branded goods (trademark infringement) | ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED. Listing items that bear a fake brand name, logo, or trade dress that the Vendor has no authorization to use. Includes replica or 'inspired by' items described in a manner that could mislead Buyers into believing they are purchasing genuine branded goods. ENFORCEMENT: immediate listing removal; account suspension or termination; referral to brand owner and law enforcement. |
| False certification marks (sustainability) | ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED. Displaying certification marks (USDA Organic, Fairtrade, FSC, B Corp, CE mark, etc.) without holding a valid, current certification. ENFORCEMENT: immediate removal; Vendor account action; referral to certifying body; AqNova Sustainability Credential Guarantee activated for affected Buyers. |
| Copyright infringement (product content) | ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED. Using copyrighted text, photography, artwork, or other creative content in product listings without authorization. ENFORCEMENT: DMCA / global equivalent notice-and-takedown process; listing removal within 5-10 Business Days of valid notice; Vendor counter-notice rights. |
| Design right / trade dress infringement | PROHIBITED. Products that directly replicate protected product designs or trade dress without authorization. ENFORCEMENT: investigation; listing removal where infringement is confirmed. |
| Patent infringement | PROHIBITED where product is the subject of a valid, enforceable patent. AqNova does not adjudicate patent disputes but will act on court orders or clearly established patent infringement confirmed by the rights holder. |
| Keyword / SEO abuse (using competitor trademark in listing) | PROHIBITED. Using registered trademarks in listing keywords, titles, or descriptions specifically to divert search traffic without authorization. ENFORCEMENT: listing amendment required; repeat violations result in listing removal. |
5.7.8 Unsubstantiated Health Claims — AqNova Standard
AqNova applies strict standards to health, medical, and wellness claims in product listings. Unsubstantiated health claims are prohibited because they mislead Buyers into purchasing products on the basis of false health benefits, potentially causing direct harm where the claim concerns a serious health condition or causes the Buyer to forgo effective medical treatment.
A. Prohibited Health Claims
| HEALTH CLAIMS — ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED ON AQNOVA The following types of health claims are PROHIBITED in any AqNova listing, regardless of the product category or destination market: DISEASE TREATMENT OR CURE CLAIMS: — Claims that a product 'cures,' 'treats,' 'prevents,' or 'reverses' a named disease or medical condition without approved drug status. — Examples: 'Cures diabetes'; 'Treats cancer'; 'Prevents Alzheimer's'; 'Reverses heart disease'; 'Kills COVID-19'. — These claims are drug claims under FDA, EU, UK, TGA, and equivalent law. Products making such claims are regulated as medicines, not supplements. UNSUBSTANTIATED COVID-19 / PANDEMIC CLAIMS: — Any claim that a product treats, cures, prevents, or mitigates COVID-19 (or any variant) without approved regulatory authorization. FALSE EFFICACY CLAIMS FOR DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS: — Claims of clinical efficacy not supported by peer-reviewed, randomized, controlled clinical trial evidence for the specific product or ingredient at the stated dose. WEIGHT LOSS CLAIMS WITHOUT SUBSTANTIATION: — 'Lose X pounds in Y days' without clinical substantiation. — Claims of rapid weight loss that would be medically unsafe. ANTI-AGING / LONGEVITY CLAIMS WITHOUT SUBSTANTIATION: — Claims of reversing cellular aging, extending lifespan, or 'anti-aging' at a biological level without clinical evidence. MISLEADING MENTAL HEALTH CLAIMS: — Products claiming to treat clinical depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, or other diagnosed mental health conditions without approved drug or medical device status. MIRACULOUS OR PSEUDOSCIENTIFIC CLAIMS: — Homeopathic claims of clinical efficacy for serious conditions (AqNova may permit homeopathic products with appropriate disclaimers where legally sold, but not clinical efficacy claims) — Energy medicine or vibrational healing claims for specific conditions — Claims citing debunked pseudoscientific theories (alkaline water curing cancer; detox products 'removing toxins' with no specificity) |
|---|
B. Permitted Health Claims (With Substantiation)
The following categories of health claims are permitted on AqNova where they are substantiated and comply with applicable regulatory requirements:
Structure/function claims (US FDA 21 C.F.R. § 101.93): claims describing how a nutrient affects a body structure or function (e.g., 'Calcium builds strong bones'). Must include FDA-required disclaimer: 'These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.'
EU authorized nutrition and health claims (Reg. 1924/2006): claims listed on the EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims. Must use the exact claim wording as authorized. Condition of use requirements must be met.
UK authorized claims: claims retained from EU Regulation 1924/2006 under UK law.
Nutrient content claims (e.g., 'high in Vitamin C,' 'low sodium,' 'a good source of fiber'): permitted where the nutritional profile meets the applicable threshold for the claim.
Organic and natural: permitted with substantiation (Tier 1 or Tier 2 certification per Section 5.5.6 and Section 5.7.10).
5.7.9 Banned Substances — Global Chemical Restrictions
The following substance categories are restricted or banned in consumer products in one or more of AqNova's operating markets. Products containing these substances at regulated concentration levels are prohibited from being listed for those markets. AqNova applies the most stringent applicable standard where multiple markets are served.
| Banned/Restricted Substance | Restriction Framework & AqNova Application |
|---|---|
| Asbestos (all forms) | GLOBALLY BANNED in most jurisdictions. Prohibited in EU (Directive 1999/77/EC); UK; US (EPA TSCA emergency rule 2024); Canada; Japan; Australia. ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED in any product on AqNova globally. |
| Lead (in consumer products) | EU REACH Annex XVII (lead in articles causing exposure to consumers, jewelry limit 0.05%); US CPSIA (children's products: 100ppm limit); ROHS in electronics. AqNova prohibits lead in children's products and enforces applicable limits in adult consumer products. |
| Cadmium | EU REACH Annex XVII (jewelry: 0.01% limit; plastics); RoHS in electronics. Products exceeding cadmium limits for applicable markets are prohibited. |
| Phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) | EU REACH Annex XVII and RoHS (0.1% limit in toys, childcare articles, electronics); CPSIA (US children's products). AqNova prohibits phthalate-containing products in children's categories; enforces limits in applicable categories. |
| Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) | Stockholm Convention (global): PCBs, DDT, dioxins, furans, PFOA, PFHxS, and growing list of POPs. ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED globally. |
| Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) | Montreal Protocol: CFCs, HCFCs (commercial use). Products containing ODS in commercial concentrations are prohibited. Certain refrigerant products for licensed technicians may be restricted rather than prohibited. |
| Mercury | Minamata Convention on Mercury: global phase-out of mercury-containing products. Mercury thermometers, certain lamps, and other products banned in EU (Directive 2011/65/EU / new Mercury Regulation); Canada; US; and progressively globally. AqNova prohibits mercury-containing consumer products. |
| Formaldehyde (high concentration in consumer products) | EU Cosmetics Regulation (limit in cosmetics); CARB (California Air Resources Board) formaldehyde limits in composite wood products. AqNova prohibits products exceeding applicable formaldehyde limits. |
| Parabens (restricted in cosmetics) | EU Cosmetics Regulation prohibits specific parabens (isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, phenylparaben, benzylparaben, pentylparaben); propylparaben and butylparaben restricted to 0.19%. AqNova applies EU Cosmetics limits as global baseline for cosmetic products. |
| PFAS (Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) | EU: REACH Annex XVII restrictions; PFOA/PFOS global restrictions. US: EPA PFAS national primary drinking water rule (2024); expanding restrictions in cookware and textiles in CA and other states. AqNova monitors and applies applicable PFAS restrictions by product category. |
| Triclosan / Triclocarban | US FDA: OTC antimicrobial rulemaking; triclosan/triclocarban removed from OTC antibacterial soaps (21 C.F.R. Part 310). EU Cosmetics Regulation: triclosan restricted (0.3% in toothpaste, soap only). AqNova applies FDA and EU restrictions. |
| Microbeads / Microplastics (intentionally added) | US Microbead-Free Waters Act 2015: prohibition in rinse-off cosmetics. UK ban on microplastics in rinse-off cosmetics (2018). EU ban on intentionally added microplastics in most products (REACH restriction). AqNova prohibits microplastic-containing rinse-off cosmetics globally. |
5.7.10 Restricted Items — Documentation Requirements by Category
The following table sets out the documentation required for each restricted item category before listing activation. All documentation must be submitted to compliance@aqnova.co or through the Vendor Dashboard > Compliance > Submit Documentation:
| Restricted Category | Required Documentation | Geo-Restriction Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Retailer/distributor license; age verification mechanism confirmation; product labels per applicable law | Prohibited: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, UAE (outside licensed venues), Pak., several Indian states. DTC US: state-by-state. |
| Tobacco / Nicotine / Vaping | Retailer license; FDA PMTA where applicable (US); TPD compliance declaration (EU); product registration | Prohibited/restricted: India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, Australia (vaping). EU/UK flavored restrictions. |
| Knives / Bladed Articles | No specific license needed for most culinary/sporting knives; product type description confirming it is not a prohibited type | UK: switchblades, butterfly knives, certain fixed-blade knives prohibited. CA: various restrictions. Multiple jurisdictions have blade length rules. |
| Prescription Medicines | Pharmacy license; pharmacy registration number; jurisdiction authorization for online pharmacy; named pharmacist contact | Prescription medicines: non-licensed pharmacies absolutely prohibited globally. |
| Medical Devices (Class I) | CE/UKCA/FDA clearance; DoC; ARTG/BIS/CDSCO registration where applicable | Must be cleared for each destination market. |
| Dietary Supplements | cGMP compliance; ISO 17025 CoA per SKU; no disease claims; FDA disclaimer (US); applicable registrations | India: FSSAI license. Australia: TGA. Country-specific listing where required. |
| Pesticides / Biocides | EPA FIFRA registration (US); EU BPR authorization; APVMA (Australia); CIB&RC (India) | Agricultural-grade: prohibited. Consumer-only. Geo-restricted by registration status. |
| Animal Furs / Skins (non-CITES) | Legal sourcing certificate; species identification; country of origin; farm/hunt documentation | EU: certain fur types restricted. California: new fur sales restrictions. Check per jurisdiction. |
| Diamonds | Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) certificate; chain of custody documentation | Diamonds from non-KP participant countries: prohibited. Conflict diamonds: prohibited. |
| CITES Appendix II products | Valid CITES export permit from country of origin; import permit from destination country where required; species identification certificate | Appendix I: absolutely prohibited. Appendix II: permit required per shipment. |
| Fireworks (consumer grade) | Vendor license for fireworks retail; product compliance with applicable safety standards | Prohibited in many municipalities and some countries. Geo-restricted by legality. |
| Adult Products (18+) | No specific license unless required by local law; age verification confirmation; compliance with obscenity laws by market | Prohibited in conservative jurisdictions. Age verification mandatory. |
| High-powered lasers (Class 3B+) | Professional use documentation; safety training certification; applicable regulatory clearance | Consumer sale of Class 3B+ lasers prohibited or restricted in most markets. |
| Hunting accessories | Not required for most items, but firearm components require firearms dealer license in applicable jurisdictions | Firearm components: geo-restricted to markets where non-dealer sale permitted. |
| Stem cell / regenerative products | Clinical trial data; applicable regulatory approval (FDA, EMA, TGA, etc.); medical device or drug classification confirmation | Unapproved stem cell products: prohibited. Approved: restricted with full regulatory documentation. |
5.7.11 Jurisdiction-Specific Restrictions
In addition to the global prohibited and restricted items framework, the following jurisdiction-specific restrictions apply for products listed to specific markets:
| Jurisdiction | Specific Restriction Notes |
|---|---|
| United States — California | Proposition 65 (Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act): products sold in California that contain listed carcinogens or reproductive toxins above action levels require Prop. 65 warning labels. AqNova requires Prop. 65 compliance declarations for applicable products. Specific restrictions also apply for: fur (SB 1520 — fur products ban effective January 1, 2023); Styrofoam / single-use plastics (California SB 54 and AB 1080); certain PFAS in food packaging, textiles, and cookware. |
| United States — Federal | CPSIA children's product restrictions; FTC Green Guides substantiation; FDA: no unapproved drug or device claims; CAN-SPAM / CASL compliance for promotional products making health claims. |
| European Union | Single-use plastics ban (EU Directive 2019/904/EU — SUP Directive): single-use plastic products including cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers, cotton bud sticks, and balloon sticks are prohibited from the EU market. AqNova geo-blocks these items for EU destinations. REACH Annex XVII: comprehensive list of restricted chemical substances. |
| United Kingdom | UK Single-Use Plastics Regulations (applicable products similar to EU SUP Directive). Ivory Act 2018: near-total ban on ivory trade in the UK; very narrow exemptions with Section 2 exemption certificate. Foie gras: while production is banned, importation and sale is currently permitted; AqNova monitors legislative developments. |
| India | Plastic bag bans and single-use plastic restrictions (Environment Protection Act 1986 — Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016, as amended). Beef and beef-by-products: prohibited or restricted in many Indian states under state-level cow protection laws. E-cigarettes and vaping devices: prohibited under COTPA amendments. |
| Saudi Arabia / Gulf States | Pork and pork-derived products: prohibited. Alcohol: prohibited. Religious iconography from non-Islamic traditions: requires sensitivity review. Products contrary to Islamic law generally. |
| Nigeria | NAFDAC registered products only for food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices. Goods without SON/SONCAP certification where applicable: prohibited import. Local content requirements for some product categories. |
| South Africa | NRCS compulsory specification compliance required. Single-use plastic bags: legislation progressively introduced. Certain traditional medicine products: regulated under the Traditional Health Practitioners Act. |
| Australia | Cot bumpers: mandatory ban (ACCC). Button/coin batteries without safe packaging: mandatory requirement. Portable swimming pools without adequate safety measures: restrictions. Biosecurity Act 2015: strict restrictions on biological materials, plants, soils, animals. |
| China | Comprehensive restrictions on content deemed contrary to Chinese law or Communist Party positions; products marketed for uses prohibited under Chinese law; cryptocurrency-related products marketed as investment instruments; VPN tools and products; foreign maps that incorrectly depict disputed territories from China's perspective. |
| Japan | Animal-derived products (specific species under Japanese law); certain cannabis-derived products (CBD products: regulated under Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act); specific radioactive-source products. |
| South Korea | E-cigarettes: regulated (import restrictions apply); Korean language labeling mandatory for applicable products; certain imported health products require MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety) approval. |
5.7.12 Policy Review & Update Mechanism
AqNova's Prohibited & Restricted Items Policy is a living document, reviewed and updated on a structured schedule and in response to regulatory changes:
| Policy Review Schedule & Update Triggers QUARTERLY SCHEDULED REVIEW (April / July / October / January each year): — AqNova's compliance and Trust & Safety teams conduct a comprehensive review of the policy against: (a) New or amended regulations in operating markets (b) Updates to CITES Appendices (Conference of the Parties decisions) (c) Changes to OFAC, UN, EU, and OFSI sanctions programs (d) New CPSC mandatory standards and bans (e) EU REACH Annex XVII and SVHC updates (f) National product bans and recalls affecting multiple jurisdictions (g) AqNova platform incident data (what prohibited/restricted items were attempted and where gaps exist in the policy) TRIGGERED UPDATES (outside quarterly schedule): — Emergency regulatory action (new product ban; major safety recall) — New OFAC/UN/EU sanctions designation affecting product categories — CITES Conference of the Parties (CoP) decision changing species listing status — Major court decision affecting prohibition/restriction enforcement — New class of harmful products identified through platform monitoring NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES: — Material changes to this Policy are communicated to all Vendors by email to their registered address and through a notice in the Vendor Dashboard. — Vendors are given a minimum 30-day notice period before new restrictions take effect (except for emergency safety restrictions, which may take effect immediately). — Updated Policy version and effective date are published at [aqnova.co/policies/prohibited-items]. VENDOR FEEDBACK: — Vendors may submit feedback on this Policy to compliance@aqnova.co. — AqNova considers Vendor input in quarterly reviews but retains final authority over all policy decisions. |
|---|
A. Detection Methods
AqNova uses multiple methods to detect prohibited and restricted items on the Platform:
AI-assisted listing screening: automated content moderation system scans new listings against known prohibited item indicators (product categories, keywords, images, pricing patterns inconsistent with legitimate products).
Manual review by Trust & Safety analysts: all flagged listings are reviewed by trained human analysts before enforcement action.
Community reporting: Buyers, Vendors, and rights holders report suspected prohibited items through the Report function (Section 5.1).
Brand partner monitoring: registered Brand Registry partners conduct ongoing monitoring for counterfeit listings involving their trademarks.
Regulatory authority cooperation: AqNova cooperates with market surveillance authorities that identify prohibited products on the Platform.
Proactive intelligence: AqNova's Trust & Safety team monitors industry intelligence, law enforcement alerts, and public health notifications for new prohibited item patterns.
B. Enforcement Actions & Consequences
| Violation Type | Enforcement Consequence |
|---|---|
| Category 1 — Absolutely Prohibited (illegal) | IMMEDIATE permanent account termination; all payouts suspended; matter referred to Trust & Safety and Compliance Officer for law enforcement referral evaluation. No appeal for confirmed Category 1 violations. |
| Category 2 — Absolutely Prohibited (values-based) | Immediate account suspension; listing removed; investigation initiated. If confirmed: permanent account termination. Appeal available within 30 days on narrow grounds (Vendor demonstrates item does not fall within the prohibited category). |
| Restricted item listed without required documentation | Listing suspended pending documentation submission (10-day window). If documentation not provided within 10 Business Days: listing removed. Repeat offense: account review; potential account suspension. |
| Restricted item listed in prohibited destination market (geo-block circumvention) | Listing immediately removed; account suspended pending investigation. If geo-block was deliberately circumvented: permanent account termination. |
| Unsubstantiated health claim (prohibited claim type) | Listing suspended; Vendor required to remove claim or provide substantiation within 5 Business Days. Failure: listing removed. Repeated prohibited claims: account suspension. |
| Counterfeit or IP-infringing item | Immediate listing removal; account suspension; referral to IP rights holder. Confirmed: permanent account termination; potential law enforcement referral. |
| Banned substance above regulatory limit | Immediate listing removal; AqNova notifies relevant regulatory authority where required. Buyer safety notification if affected Buyers have already purchased. Account review; potential suspension. |
5.7.14 Contact Information — Prohibited & Restricted Items
| AqNova — Prohibited & Restricted Items Contacts REPORT A PROHIBITED ITEM (Buyers / Public): On-Platform: 'Report This Listing' button Email: trust@aqnova.co [Subject: Prohibited Item — [URL]] Urgent (weapons / CSAM / drugs): safety@aqnova.co [URGENT] VENDOR COMPLIANCE QUERIES: Restricted Item Documentation: compliance@aqnova.co Sanctions / Export Control: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: Sanctions Query] CITES / Wildlife Permits: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: CITES Permit] Health Claims Review: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: Health Claim Review] Chemical / Substance Queries: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: Chemical Compliance] Geo-Restriction Queries: vendors@aqnova.co [Subject: Geo-Restriction] POLICY & APPEALS: Policy Feedback: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: Policy Feedback] Enforcement Appeals: trust@aqnova.co [Subject: Prohibited Item Appeal] PROHIBITED ITEMS POLICY (CURRENT VERSION): [aqnova.co/policies/prohibited-items] Last Review: April 2026 | Next Review: July 2026 LEGAL NOTICES: legal@aqnova.com Registered Office: Arivon Holding Corporation C/O Arivon Holding Corporation, 2571 Saturn Avenue, Unit #265 Huntington Park, CA 90255, USA California File Number: B20250418195 | EIN: 41-3210066 | D-U-N-S: 142957477 GB EORI: GB511467217000 Nigeria (Sahara Eagle Ltd) — Reg: 1957145 | Tax ID: 31052811-0001 | NEPC: 0030281 |
|---|
AqNova Marketplace | Global Legal Footer Framework | Section 5.7: Prohibited & Restricted Items Policy
© 2026 Arivon Holding Corporation. All rights reserved. Effective April 7, 2026. Version 1.0. Reviewed: April 2026. Next Review: July 2026.