CITES Enforcement and Wildlife Trade Controls

CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) provides the international legal framework for controlling wildlife trade, but enforcement remains a major challenge requiring global cooperation.

Key Facts

CITES regulates trade in over 38,000 species of animals and plants across 183 member countries
Appendix I species are banned from commercial trade; Appendix II species require permits
The UK Border Force has specialist wildlife detection officers operating at major ports and airports
Wildlife trafficking is estimated to be the fourth largest illegal trade globally
TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network, provides intelligence and analysis to support CITES enforcement

Welfare Considerations

CITES enforcement is a direct animal welfare intervention. Intercepting illegal wildlife shipments saves animals from the extreme suffering of capture, transport and trade. Animals seized in trade are often in critical condition from stress, dehydration and injury. Enforcement also deters future trafficking by raising costs and risks for criminal networks. Welfare outcomes for confiscated animals depend heavily on the quality of specialist care facilities available in the seizing country — a major challenge in low-income countries with limited resources.

What You Can Do

Report suspected illegal wildlife trade to the CITES Management Authority or Border Force
Support TRAFFIC and CITES enforcement programmes financially
Avoid purchasing wildlife products of uncertain origin including traditional medicines and souvenirs
Campaign for stronger penalties for wildlife trafficking in national and international legislation
Support capacity-building for CITES enforcement in range countries