Cultural heritage laws play a pivotal role in regulating the sale and export of antique porcelain sculptures, balancing preservation with commerce. Many countries enforce strict regulations to prevent the illegal trafficking of culturally significant artifacts, requiring sellers to obtain permits or prove legal ownership before export. For instance, China's Cultural Relics Protection Law prohibits the export of porcelain pieces deemed national treasures, while the EU imposes similar restrictions under its cultural property regulations.

These laws often require provenance documentation, ensuring artifacts weren't looted or illegally acquired. Auction houses and dealers must comply with international treaties like UNESCO's 1970 Convention, which discourages illicit trade. Violations can lead to hefty fines or confiscation, discouraging unethical practices.

However, such regulations also create challenges for collectors and markets, as legal exports become more cumbersome. Some argue that overly restrictive laws stifle legitimate trade, while others emphasize their necessity in safeguarding cultural identity. Ultimately, these laws aim to preserve history while fostering ethical transactions in the antique porcelain trade.