"semi-illicit"? It's flat-out illegal, not semi-illicit.

Inadvertently or not, illegal imports can bring in invasive species, like the Asian carp or even less interesting things like fruit molds that threaten native species and often spread like crazy. There's a reason why imports are regulated.

And, it's potentially a felony under the Lacey Act. That's why it's secretive. This isn't sneaking out at night after your parents grounded you.. this potentially damages entire ecosystems.