BRIEFING DOCUMENT

18TH MEETING

OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO

CITES Briefing Document

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CONTENTS
Introduction, Overview, and TRAFFIC at CoP18

1

CITES Strategic Vision post-2020

4

Review of the Convention

4

Securing better implementation of marine fish species listings in the Appendices5

Global Strategy for Plant Conservation

6

International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime

6

Rural communities

7

CITES and livelihoods

8

Demand reduction strategies to combat illegal trade in CITES-listed species

8Compliance in relation to Malagasy ebonies Diospyros spp. and palisanders and rosewoods Dalbergia spp.

9

Combating wildlife cybercrime

10

Traceability

11

Non-detriment findings

12

Stocks and stockpiles

12

CITES implementation for trade in medicinal plants

13

Implementation of the Convention relating to captive-bred and ranched specimens
Review of trade in animal specimens reported as produced in captivity

14

Sturgeons and paddlefish Acipenseriformes spp.

15

Eels Anguilla spp.

15

Precious corals (Order Antipatharia and family Coralliidae)

16

Sharks and rays Elasmobranchii spp.

17

Elephants: Implementation of Res. Conf. 10.10 (rev. Cop17) on trade in elephant specimens

18

Report on the Elephant Trade Information System (ETIS)

19

Implementing aspects of Res. Conf. 10.10 (Rec. CoP17) on the closeure of Domestic Ivory Markets

20

Hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata and other marine turtles (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae)
Asian big cats (Felidae spp.)

21

African Lion Panthera leo:

23

Songbird trade and conservation management (Passeriformes)
Rhinoceroses (Rhinocerotidae spp.)

24

Helmeted Hornbill Rhinoplax vigil

28

Saiga antelope Saiga spp.

29

Tortoises and freshwater turtles (Testudines spp.)
Proposals to amend Appendices I and II

30

14

22

25

31

INTRODUCTION
In May this year, a landmark new report from the Intergovernmental SciencePolicy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) provided
overwhelming evidence that nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented
in human history, eroding the very foundations of our economies, livelihoods,
food security, health and quality of life worldwide.
The IPBES Global Assessment Reporton Biodiversity and Ecosystems Services
found that around 1 million animal and plant
species are now threatened with extinction
and that the rate of species extinctions is
accelerating. The report demonstrated thatthe second biggest driver of negative impacts
on nature, after changes in land and sea
use, is the direct exploitation of animal andplant species, including harvesting, hunting,fishing and logging. The grim picture painted
by this report highlights the vital importancethat multilateral environmental agreements
such as CITES must play in catalysing thetransformative changes needed to ensure that
global goals for conserving and sustainably
using nature are achieved. The 17th meetingof the Conference of the Parties to CITES(CoP17) in Johannesburg in 2016 was
acclaimed by the Secretary General at thattime as “a game changer for the planet’s
most vulnerable wild animals and plants”. For

many species – from pangolins to marine
species and even including a whole genus oftrees – stronger trade regulation measures
were adopted through amendments to the
CITES Appendices. Moreover, some key CITES
Resolutions were strengthened and new
Resolutions and Decisions adopted that broke
new ground for several important issues, suchas traceability, captive breeding, corruption,
demand reduction and cybercrime.
As TRAFFIC reflected after CoP17 (see: https://www.traffic.org/site/assets/files/3014/
traffic_pub_bulletin_28_2_editorial.pdf),
there was indeed a unique opportunity toensure that CITES really does change the gameand deliver positive conservation outcomes.
Three years later, with CITES CoP18 conveningin Geneva after the tragic April 2019 bombingsin Sri Lanka led to postponement and achange of venue, there is however still muchto be done.
CITES Briefing Document

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COP18OVERVIEWThe CITES Parties and other participants at
CoP18 face an enormously packed agenda.
Even before this gets started, they will tackle
some critical immediate issues during the 71st
Meeting of the CITES Standing Committee on
16 August, including decisions on National
Ivory Action Plans and national compliancemeasures.
For the CoP itself, the agenda includes a large
volume of ongoing business related to previous
decisions, often involving significant intersessional work by the Standing, Animals andPlants Committees. CoP18 will also consider
a range of new topics of concern, such as
the songbird trade and explore proposed
new approaches to deal with intractableissues such as stockpiles and strategies toaddress trade in big cats. New trade regulation
measures are also proposed for species suchguitarfishes, wedgefishes and mako sharks.
The agenda also includes some morestrategic topics, including an item that calls for
a comprehensive review of the Convention inorder to enhance its impact and effectiveness.

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CITES Briefing Document

Such a review, if formulated effectively andfor the right reasons, could provide a crucial
opportunity for Parties to consider not only
how to maximise the impact of CITES itself,
but also to work out how action under CITES
can be better aligned with that of otherbiodiversity, environment and development
agreements and institutions to drive greateraction to reverse the alarming trends that werehighlighted by the IPBES Global Assessment.
Next year, governments will meet at the
fifteenth meeting of the Conference of theParties to the Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD) to agree on an ambitious new
post-2020 global biodiversity framework andstrategic plan to reverse the decline in nature.
Ambitions, plans and actions of CITES andother relevant biodiversity and environmental
agreements must be co-ordinated, coherent
and aligned with that aim. A good starting
point would be to ensure that over-exploitationof nature and related international trade isclearly flagged as targeted theme for action in
the post-2020 global biodiversity framework.

TRAFFIC AT CITES COP18
This document outlines TRAFFIC’s views
and advice on some priority issues andproposals on the agenda for CITES CoP18.
TRAFFIC believes that policy decisions andrecommendation should be informed andguided by credible evidence and impartial
analysis and, for many of the issues addressedin this document, we have highlighted recent
TRAFFIC reports and other research that
could assist Parties in their deliberations.
We hope that this briefing document provides
Parties with important insights on how theirdecisions about these various agenda items

and proposals can help ensure that wild plants
and animals are not overexploited throughunsustainable trade, and that sustainable useof wildlife continues to provide benefits toconservation and human livelihoods.
Members of TRAFFIC’s team of wildlife trade
specialists from our offices around the world
will attend the CoP and will be available
throughout the meeting to provide explanationand further advice on request. See www.
traffic.org/about-us/working-with-cites/
cites-cop18/ for further information andcontact details.

CITES Briefing Document

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CITES STRATEGIC VISION POST 2020

CoP18 Doc. 10

TRAFFIC supports strengthened co-operation,
collaboration and synergies between CITES’
Strategic Vision, the CBD’s Strategic Plan for
Biodiversity 2011–2020, its Aichi Target andthe 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,in particular, greater engagement with theprocess currently underway to adopt a post2020 biodiversity framework to replace theStrategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020.
Resolution Conf. 18.X on CITES Strategic
Vision: 2021–2030, found in Annex 1 of thisdocument, provides a good framework forrealising these synergies and urges Parties
to adopt this Resolution. The Aichi Targets
currently do not include a specific wildlife
trade target, despite illegal and unsustainable
trade being a key driver of biodiversity loss,
and sustainable, well-managed legal trade
having the scope to provide benefits to allfrom biodiversity and ecosystem services.

TRAFFIC believes that establishing a wildlife
trade focused target within the post-2020
Global Biodiversity Framework is essential toensure the political commitment and levels of
implementation to address this global issue.
This is central to the effective implementationof CITES and would ensure connectivity
to the SDGs. CITES has demonstrated its
role in reducing the pressure of illegal andunsustainable trade in wild flora and fauna
on biodiversity and enhancing the benefits towildlife conservation and human well-being
deriving from sustainable, legal wildlife trade.
The lead up to the CBD CoP in Kunming, China,
in 2020 is a golden opportunity for Parties todemonstrate the vital contribution CITES canmake to the targets being set in 2020. For
more on TRAFFIC’s position on the Post-2020
Global Biodiversity Framework see: https://www.traffic.org/site/assets/files/11412/
post-2020_traffic_wildlife_trade_briefing.pdf

REVIEW OF THE CONVENTION

CoP18 Doc. 11

While TRAFFIC does not agree with many of thearguments and justifications in this document,
we do agree that a review to improve andenhance the effectiveness of CITES will bebeneficial. A review of the Convention would
also be a good opportunity for Parties toconsider how the work of the Convention
can be aligned with that of other biodiversity,
environment and development agreements
and conventions to ensure the synergies andintegrated approach that is needed to reverse

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CITES Briefing Document

the alarming trends that were highlighted by
the IPBES Global Assessment released in May.
Ambitions, plans and actions of CITES andother relevant biodiversity and environmental
agreements must be co-ordinated, coherent
and aligned with the objectives that will emerge
from ongoing discussions on the post-2020
biodiversity framework. However, TRAFFIC
recommends that such a review be conductedin a transparent and impartial manner, withclear objectives and terms of reference.

SECURING BETTER IMPLEMENTATION OF MARINEFISH SPECIES LISTINGS IN THE APPENDICES

CoP18 Doc. 12This document argues that the listings of marine species in
CITES have not been properly implemented and until they candemonstrate conservation benefit, no further proposals should
be made. While TRAFFIC strongly believes that decisions
on listings should indeed be made on the basis of scientificinformation and the potential conservation benefits they would
bring to the species, the document does not appear to provide
sufficient evidence that the current listings of marine species
have not done so. TRAFFIC opposes the call for a moratorium
on any further proposals for the listing of marine fish species
in the Appendices and does not believe that any review of theimplementation of CITES listings should just be restricted
to listings of marine species. We do agree that attention isneeded to strengthen the effective implementation of these
listings and Parties face numerous challenges, such as thedevelopment of non-detriment findings; effective compliancewith, and enforcement of, CITES provisions and the makingof legal acquisition findings. These challenges need to beaddressed by other mechanisms, including enhanced support
for the range States concerned and not through the adoption of
the proposed draft resolution, which Parties should reject.

CITES Non-detriment
Findings Guidance for
Shark Species:
A Framework to assist
Authorities in making Nondetriment Findings (NDFs)
for species listed in CITES
Appendix II (AC27 Inf. 1
Annex), 2014.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/files/eng/prog/shark/docs/
Shark%20NDF%20guidance%20incl%20Annexes.pdf

CITES Briefing Document

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GLOBAL STRATEGY FOR
PLANT CONSERVATION
CoP18 Doc. 15.3
TRAFFIC supports the continued collaboration between
CITES and CBD Secretariats around implementation of the
Global Partnership for Plant Conservation (GSPC). TRAFFIC isconcerned that issues related to trade and use of plants may
receive insufficient attention during development of the post2020 biodiversity framework. TRAFFIC encourages the Plants
Committee and CITES Secretariat to engage with the CBD
Secretariat and highlight the importance of Targets 11 and
12 of the GSPC and ensure these key targets are reflected in
the post-2020 biodiversity framework.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/wild-at-home-anoverview-of-the-harvest-and-trade-in-wild-plant-ingredients

Wild at Home: An overview

of the harvest and trade in wild
plant ingredients, 2018
This study demonstrates how
sustainable wild plant harvesting
can contribute to wider wildlife
conservation goals and why global
industry must adapt. It draws
attention to the wild plant ingredientsused in everyday products and theneed for their traceable, sustainable
and ethical sourcing and trade.

INTERNATIONAL CONSORTIUM ON
COMBATTING WILDLIFE CRIME
CoP18 Doc. 15.5
TRAFFIC supports the recommendations in the document
calling on Parties to measure and monitor the effectivenessof their own law enforcement responses to wildlife and forest
crime; draw upon the best data and case studies available toinform their decision making and development appropriate law
enforcement responses; provide funding support towards theimplementation of ICCWC’s Strategic Programme 2016-2020;and maintain the position of the ICCWC Support Officer.
The Secretariat reported that the Consortium, based on theoutcomes of the 2nd Global Meeting of Wildlife Enforcement
Networks (WENs), was exploring developing guidelines forstrengthening existing and establishing new WENs. To inform

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CITES Briefing Document

RhODIS® (Rhino DNA Index

System) Collaborative Action
Planning Workshop Proceedings,
2016the development of such guidelines, TRAFFIC believes an
independent review of the effectiveness of existing WENs isneeded, to highlight best practices and identify problems andchallenges in the establishment of WENs.

Outcomes of the RhODIS® Rhino
DNA Scientific workshop held inSouth Africa in 2016 where theinternational expansion of rhino horn
DNA testing was announced. Wildlife
DNA forensic scientists, enforcement
officers and investigators from rhino
horn source, transit and consumer
countries attended.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/rhodis-collaborative-action-planning-workshop-proceedings/

RURAL COMMUNITIESCoP18 Doc. 17.1, 17.2 & 7.3

Though disappointed that divergent views prevented
meaningful inter-sessional progress on the issue of CITES andrural communities, TRAFFIC supports the recommendation
for continuation of the Working Group’s efforts but urges thatthey focus on achieving consensus and agreement on issuesof common concern. TRAFFIC encourages Parties developing
listing proposals, draft resolutions and decisions, to consider
the potential impacts on rural communities. It is also importantthat these impacts are addressed when implementing suchlistings. However, scientific information and the potential
conservation benefits listings would bring to the species mustremain the basis on which decisions on the acceptance of these
listings and for amendment of Appendices I and II are made.
The proposal for the establishment of a Rural Communities
Committee may involve a number of procedural, administrativeand financial challenges to overcome, particularly given theongoing concern about limited funds available for CITES’
rapidly expanding scope of work. Parties should explore
other mechanisms or processes through which greaterrural community engagement and participation in CITES
implementation can be accomplished. For example, there canbe further examination of the option discussed in the Working
in seeking ways of ensuring participation of rural community
representatives in all CITES meetings.

Enhancing Management andBenefit Flows in Viet Nam’s
Wild Medicinal Products

Outcomes of a project UK
Government-supported Initiative
aimed at improving the livelihoodsof medicinal and aromatic plantcollectors in Bac Kan, encouraging
more sustainable wild plantcollection methods.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/enhancing-management-and-benefit-flows-in-viet-namswild-medicinal-products/

CITES Briefing Document

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CITES AND LIVELIHOODS
CoP18 Doc. 18.1, 18.2 & 18.3
TRAFFIC supports the draft Decisions proposed here,
particularly an evaluation of using registered certification
marks for products of CITES-listed species produced by ruralcommunities, in line with CITES’ aims to enhance conservationand livelihood outcomes. In this regard, TRAFFIC would liketo highlight the Information Document below on CITES andcertification (see Cop18 Doc. 55).

Succeeding with CITES:
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/news/succeedingwith-cites-new-project-aims-to-promotesustainable-wild-jatamansi-trade-from-nepal/

Sustainable and equitable
Jatamansi trade from Nepal:
Project summary
A summary of an innovative project that aims topromote legal, sustainable, and equitable international
trade in medicinal and aromatic plant Nardostachys
jatamansi from Nepal, through the use of FairWild
Standard and certification scheme, ensuring fairworking conditions and benefits for collectors andcommunities, and meeting management and business
requirements.

DEMAND REDUCTION STRATEGIES TO COMBATILLEGAL TRADE IN CITES-LISTED SPECIES
CoP18 Doc. 20
The Secretariat commissioned TRAFFIC to conduct a study
to assist Parties in the development and implementation of
long-term demand reduction strategies or programmes tocombat wildlife trafficking.To gather relevant information, theSecretariat and TRAFFIC developed a questionnaire for Parties
and in November 2018, TRAFFIC supported the Secretariat’s
hosting of an experts’ workshop to deepen insights andsupport impactful practices around influencing wildlife
product consumer behaviour. The meeting report is available
as an Information Document (No. 4). TRAFFIC fully supports
the draft Decisions that would mandate the developmentof demand reduction guidelines for consideration by theStanding Committee.

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CITES Briefing Document

Final Consultant’s Report: Review Of Demand Reduction Initiatives By CITES Parties, 2019
Outcomes from an expert workshop for Parties held to discuss the findings of a study carried out by
TRAFFIC in compliance with Decision 17.48.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/files/eng/cop/18/inf/E-CoP18-Inf-004.pdf

COMPLIANCE IN RELATION TO MALAGASYEBONIES (DIOSPYROS SPP.) AND PALISANDERSAND ROSEWOODS (DALBERGIA SPP.)
CoP18 Doc. 30.2
TRAFFIC welcomes Madagascar’s efforts to implement the
CITES action plan (Doc.17.204), noting the progress being
made is mostly on the scientific side of its provisions. TRAFFIC
supports the draft Decisions in principle but notes that there
are still key issues that Madagascar should address before
any process towards the resumption of legal trade can start.
These include monitoring and evaluation of the implementationof the recommendations provided by ICCWC in 2016 on wildlife
law enforcement in Madagascar, as well as ensuring therobustness of the verification mechanism to sell the timberstockpile (declared stockpiles, seized stockpiles and hidden
stockpiles).
The effectiveness of the Special Court for combatting illegal
trade of rosewood, which although formally established,currently lacks adequate enabling financial resources andconsequently is largely ineffective and must be strengthened.
Madagascar’s report included court statistics on rosewood, but
it is worth noting that among the notorious rosewood barons(who were made public by the former Prime Minister in 2011),
few were convicted, with most of the convicted offenders beingfrom the lower levels of the supply chain.
A strong commitment and plan of action must also be secured
to ensure that any sale of stockpiles will not trigger a fresh
surge of illegal harvest of these species. Although progress has

Timber Island: The Rosewood

and Ebony Trade of Madagascar,
2017
This study highlights how a
combination of political instability,
government mismanagement, a lackof forest operation controls and a
failure to impose punitive penalties
on well-known traffickers contributed
to what was effectively zero control

CITES Briefing Document

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been made with developing identification tools for Malagasy
timber, these are too complex for practical use at forest level
where identification, control and monitoring of the wild harvestof timber is essential for compiling non-detriment findings.
Without this ability to identify species and consequently
to conduct NDF’s, Madagascar will struggle to meet therequirements of current CITES Decisions.
TRAFFIC urges support for Madagascar to build up thegovernance structures and processes needed. This includes
capacity building on wildlife regulations and enforcement;
strengthening of information management systems; adoptionof a tracking system for CITES species trade; centralisation of
the CITES permit system; and capacity building on the making
of NDFs.

over the management ofprecious timber resources in
Madagascar between 20102015. Additional factors included
widespread poverty, corruption,
poor species identification skills
and deficient knowledge abouttimber resources.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/
publications/reports/timberisland-the-rosewood-andebony-trade-of-madagascar/

COMBATTINGWILDLIFE CYBERCRIME
CoP18 Doc. 33.1 & 33.2
TRAFFIC has worked hard to research and document illegal
wildlife trade on the internet over the past decade. In recent
years, traffickers have in many cases shifted away from online
retail platforms such as auction sites and onto “closed” social
media platforms which are more difficult to monitor. Thishas created new challenges—monitoring and policing of this“underground” marketplace must become a top enforcement
priority. TRAFFIC therefore fully supports the proposed
amendments to Resolution Conf. 11.3 and draft Decisions,particularly those encouraging greater engagement with
relevant online and social media platforms, search engines
and e-commerce platforms.
TRAFFIC, with other partners, is providing advice and assistanceto members of the Coalition to End Wildlife Trafficking Online
in a pioneering collaboration between NGOs and the techindustry. The Coalition, which includes 33 global e-commerce,social media and technology companies including Baidu,
Alibaba, Tencent, eBay, Google, Microsoft and Rakuten, working
in partnership with TRAFFIC, WWF and IFAW, aims to reduce
wildlife trafficking through web-based platforms. TRAFFIC

10 CITES Briefing Document

Wildlife Cyber Crime Trends
in China: Online Monitoring
Results 2017-2018

During the period 2017–2018, theaverage number of new wildlife
product advertisements every monthon website platforms declined 73%
compared to 2012–2016. However,increasingly illegal wildlife products
advertisements did not use any
keywords or text, favouring icons
and emojis — a development which
could greatly increase the difficultyof market monitoring and law
enforcement.

hopes that CITES Parties similarly strengthen and enhance their engagement and cooperation
with the private sector on this issue.
TRAFFIC has conducted in-depth e-commerce and social media monitoring in China and Japan,
and assessed the use of social media to trade wildlife in Thailand, Malaysia, Viet Nam, thePhilippines and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. TRAFFIC hopes Parties will make full use of thisinformation to develop the relevant regulatory and enforcement responses and interventions.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/wildlife-cybercrime-trends-in-china/

TRACEABILITY
CoP18 Doc. 42
Improved systems for tracking of wildlife products throughthe trade chain offers great potential to boost efforts aimed atensuring relevant national and international legislation is being
respected. Such systems can also improve transparency tohelp consumers ensure they are not unwittingly purchasing,and therefore supporting, illegal or unsustainable trade.
While TRAFFIC notes the Standing Committee did not support
the need for a CITES resolution at this time, traceability is sucha fundamental component of delivering CITES implementationthat TRAFFIC regards the eventual development of aresolution on traceability as essential for Parties to tackle thisissue in a comprehensive and co-ordinated manner. Technology
in this area is changing fast and there are great opportunities
to strengthen CITES implementation and impacts throughmodern traceability approaches.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/
traceability-systems-in-the-cites-context/

Traceability Systems in the
CITES Context: A Review ofExperiences, Best Practices
and Lessons Learned for theTraceability of Commodities of
CITES-listed Shark species, 2016
A review of how trade in species
listed in CITES can be tracked along
the supply chain. It covers shark andray trade and case studies on tradein sturgeon caviar, crocodile skins,
Queen Conch and timber.

CITES Briefing Document

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NON-DETRIMENT FINDINGSCoP18 Doc. 45
Non-detriment findings (NDFs) are essential to effective CITES
implementation. The first International Expert meeting in Cancun
on NDFs led to the development of specific NDF guidance,
including the nine-step guidance for perennial plants TRAFFIC
developed with BfN, Germany’s Scientific Authority for Plants,
and adapted for timber, and other taxon-specific guidance forsharks, seahorses and other species. TRAFFIC fully supports
the proposal to hold a second International Expert meeting andlooks forward to providing input and supporting this initiative.
TRAFFIC welcomes the review aimed at strengthening andbuilding upon existing guidance and tools. Together with BfN,
TRAFFIC has held training workshops in Africa, Latin Americaand Asia. An e-learning tool based on the nine-step approachis under development to facilitate such capacity building.
TRAFFIC will be organising a side event with BfN on this issue
at CoP18 on 21st August.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.bfn.de/en/activities/species-conservation/speciesconservation-legislation-and-conventions/cites/tree-species.html

CITES Non-detriment
Findings for Timber, v. 3.0,
2018
Using the structure of the 9-stepguidance for perennial plants .

STOCKS AND STOCKPILES
CoP18 Doc. 51
As outlined in SC70 Doc. 41, there has been
considerable progress in the process torationalise CITES’ approach on the issue ofstocks and stockpiles. However, most results
are provisional and TRAFFIC supports the
proposal to extend the deliberation process
to get the final results into CoP19. So far, interms of prevailing definitions, stocks refer tolive specimens and stockpiles to parts andderivatives. CITES Resolutions and Decisions

12 CITES Briefing Document

currently address stock and stockpile issues
associated with specimens of Asian big
cats, elephants, rhinos, Saiga and Tibetan
antelopes, pangolins, snakes, Malagasy
ebonies (Diospyros spp.), palisanders androsewoods (Dalbergia spp.) The issue of resale of confiscated specimens has beenaddressed, but practical guidance on stockand stockpile management and security has
not been a major focus.

For Appendix I species subject to highlevels of illegal trade, TRAFFIC believes it isimperative that countries develop competent
stockpile management systems that fostertransparency and accountability and maintaintheir security; currently leakage back into illegal

trade is a serious problem in countries where
stockpile management is lacking. To assist
Parties with addressing this challenging issue,
TRAFFIC will be producing an Information
Document on effective stockpile management
at this CoP.

CITES IMPLEMENTATION FOR TRADE IN
MEDICINAL PLANT SPECIES
CoP18 Doc. 55
While TRAFFIC is supportive of the recommendations andoverall direction of this work, we strongly urge that it be inclusiveof aromatic plants. The trade in CITES-listed “medicinal” plant
species has been changing rapidly in recent decades and inmany examples in the document, the species are actually tradedfor aromatherapy, cosmetics and food (such as Nardostachys
jatamansi, Aloe ferox and Aquilaria spp). TRAFFIC therefore
recommends that the draft Decisions and Recommendations
refer to “medicinal and aromatic plants” (MAPs).
TRAFFIC has implemented a MAP trade programme for over 20
years, and we offer our expertise and experience on this issue
to CITES entities. TRAFFIC, IUCN and other partners, including
Parties have developed a range of specialised tools that can
support CITES implementation for MAP species, including the
FairWild Standard and NDF Guidance for Perennial Plants.
Noting the draft Decision regarding a review of certification
schemes, standards and guidelines, we would like to draw theattention of Parties to the Information Document drafted by
TRAFFIC on this issue.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/news/making-cites-work-for-wildmedicinal-and-aromatic-plants/

Voluntary certification
standards and theimplementation of CITES
for trade in medicinal andaromatic plant species:
Project summary
This project examined how
voluntary certification can assist
with implementation of CITES for
Appendix II-listed wild-sourced
medicinal and aromatic plants (MAP)
species and meeting management
and business requirements.

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IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONVENTIONRELATING TO CAPTIVE-BRED AND RANCHED
SPECIMENS
CoP18 Doc. 57

IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION CONF. 17.7 ON
REVIEW OF TRADE IN ANIMAL SPECIMENSREPORTED AS PRODUCED IN CAPTIVITY
CoP18 Doc. 58
TRAFFIC welcomes the comprehensive review undertaken by
the Secretariat on this critical issue that highlights the many
inconsistencies and ambiguities that Parties face when trying
to implement the Convention. As trade from captive-sources isalready larger than trade from the wild, the need for clarity andguidance is urgent.
TRAFFIC welcomed the adoption of Resolution 17.7 at CoP17 asa critical mechanism to reduce misreporting of wild specimens
as from captive sources. TRAFFIC has extensively researchedthis topic and regularly encounters cases of source code misuse.
The proportion of trade declared as from captive sources isonly likely to grow as stakeholders, including governments,
encourage captive-breeding, and as more species are protectedfrom wild harvest nationally and internationally. Ensuring there
is no fraudulent use of source codes should be fundamental to
the Convention, and TRAFFIC strongly supports the Standing
Committee’s recommendation that implementation of thisResolution may require a budget line from core funds. TRAFFIC
also supports the proposed amendments to Res. Conf. 17.7
aimed at ensuring the Animals Committee does not selectspecies-country combinations for review if the Standing
Committee is already in discussions with the country.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/eastward-bound/

14 CITES Briefing Document

Eastward Bound: Analysisof CITES-listed flora and fauna
exports from Africa to East andSoutheast Asia, 2018
This study found that 1.3 million
live animals and plants, 1.5 million
skins and 2,000 tonnes of meat
were exported between Africa
and Asia since 2016. Captive
breeding of reptiles, including Nile
Crocodiles Crocodilus niloticus andLeopard Tortoise Stigmochelys
pardalis, occurs throughout African
nations, with exports of reptile
skins occurring particularly from
Zimbabwe.

STURGEONS AND PADDLEFISH(ACIPENSERIFORMES SPP.)
CoP18 Doc. 61, Doc. 54.3 Identification of
Sturgeons and Paddlefish Specimens in Trade
As trade in caviar from aquaculture facilities has increased over
the years, the definition of country of origin has become anissue. CoP17 adopted Decision 17.185 directing the Standing
and Animals Committees to report to CoP18 on this, although
they and the intersessional working group did not reach any
consensus. At SC70, the Secretariat was invited to propose
draft decisions to continue work on this issue. With the draft
decision, the mandate of SC would be broadened to include
the universal caviar labelling system, not just the definition ofcountry of origin. TRAFFIC supports examination of this wider
context. TRAFFIC also supports the recommendations in
CoP18 Doc. 54.3 that aim to address issues with identificationand traceability.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/
understanding-the-global-caviar-market/

Understanding the Global
Caviar market, 2018
This report found that
implementation of the CITES
caviar labelling system is lacking
in key range and consumer states.
It recommended the Standing
Committee and Secretariat review
implementation of Resolution Conf.
12. 7 (Rev. CoP17) and consider
proposing changes to the caviar
labelling system.

EELS(ANGUILLA SPP.)
CoP18 Doc. 63
Illegal trade in the European Eel Anguilla anguilla. is serious. In thelast few years, an increasing number of seizures have occurredin the EU with successful collaboration between EU range Statelaw enforcement and CITES Management Authorities. However,a large amount of A. anguilla, especially live eel fry (glass eels)
are still considered to be illegally exported from the range Statesand more needs to be done in order to solve the problem at its
root, including the lack of an EU-wide traceability system andaquaculture over-capacity and high demand in East Asia. It istherefore essential that source, transit, farming and consumer
countries/territories take collective actions to

CITES Briefing Document15

counter it, in particular, co-operation between range Statesand destination countries/territories such as China (including
Hong Kong SAR). In addition, recent seizure data suggest that
Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Viet Nam areused as transit points for A. anguilla live eel fry exports to East
Asia for farming; co-operation with these countries also needs
to be strengthened. Following the Appendix II European Eellisting and EU export ban in 2010, exploitation and trade in othereel species has increased along with significant numbers of live
eel fry illegally traded from/to East Asia, Southeast Asia and theAmericas. Unless substantial progress is made in addressing
illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, illegal tradeand in establishing traceability in range States of non-CITES
listed Anguilla species, TRAFFIC believes that a genus-widelisting for all Anguilla spp. might need to be considered at
CoP19.

Implementation of the
CITES Appendix II listingof European Eel Anguilla
Anguilla (AC30 Doc 18.1
Annex 1), 2018
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/files/
eng/com/ac/30/E-AC30-18-01-A1.
pdf

PRECIOUS CORALS(ORDER ANTIPATHARIA AND
FAMILY CORALLIIDAE)
CoP18 Doc. 64
The Animals Committee’s working groups on precious corals
have identified various challenges including the difficulty inmonitoring wild populations, a lack of research on stocks
and harvest, and the difficulty of analysing international coral
product trade owing to the lack of specific Customs codes.
Further work is needed and it is important for Parties to ensurethat the Animals and Standing Committees produce meaningfulrecommendations on this important issue.
Due to the long-term nature of some of the identified
challenges, TRAFFIC suggests that Parties direct theStanding Committee to consider whether a Resolution is
warranted on Precious Corals (Order Antipatharia and Family
Coralliidae) to support effective implementation of relevant
recommendations.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/seeing-red/

16 CITES Briefing Document

Seeing Red: gaps inknowledge threatening
precious coral populations,
2018
Inconsistent trade data andquestionable harvesting practices in
East Asia could threaten vulnerable
species. a series of recommendations,covering sustainable management,
regional co-operation, data collection,and effective implementation of CITES
is proposed to help stakeholders work
across supply chains towards a fullytransparent and sustainable trade inthese precious resources.

SHARKS AND RAYS (ELASMOBRANCHII SPP.)REPORT OF THE ANIMALS COMMITTEE
CoP18 Doc. 68.1

REPORT OF THE SECRETARIAT

CoP18 Doc 68.2

The document reports significant progress in implementationof the Appendix II listings for commercially-exploited sharks andrays following CoP16 and CoP17, with regional co-operation
within and between CITES authorities, Customs authorities,
and fisheries agencies and scientists resulting. The Animals
and Standing Committees made recommendations fordevelopment into draft Decisions or revisions to Resolution
Conf. 12.6 (Rev. CoP17), as appropriate, for consideration at
CoP18, which TRAFFIC hopes Parties will endorse.
The Animals Committee noted some look-alike and identification
issues still need to be resolved, especially for hammerhead
sharks and with processed products such as shark liver oil
and fish meal which may include a combination of different
shark species. Parties may wish to consider the option to list
the remaining hammerhead sharks in Appendix II at the next
CoP or to direct the Animals and/or Standing Committee(s) to
examine the benefits of the potential listing.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/shark-fin-and-mobulidray-gill-plate-trade/

Shark fin and mobuild ray
gill plate trade in mainland
China, Hong Kong andTaiwan, 2016:
The trade in these products changes
rapidly, depending on where and how
profits can be made. For example,
the re-exportation of shark finsfrom Hong Kong to mainland China,
traditionally the biggest importer,
significantly dropped in 2010, but
was offset after Viet Nam became
the largest importer of shark finsfrom Hong Kong. The dynamic
nature of the trade highlights theneed for better traceability and a
global overview of the markets.

CITES Briefing Document

17

ELEPHANTSIMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION CONF. 10.10(REV. COP17) ON TRADE IN ELEPHANT SPECIMENS
CoP18 Doc. 69.1
TRAFFIC supports the Secretariat’s proposal to renew Decision
17.171 at CoP18 so that work on the important issue of ivory
stocks and stockpiles can be brought to a conclusion. The
Secretariat is to provide practical guidance for Parties on
the management of ivory stockpiles and their disposal, while
TRAFFIC is specifically noted in paragraph 8 as reviewing
the Stop Ivory system as it pertained to implementation in
Mozambique. TRAFFIC has recently produced a guidance
document on Effective Stockpile Management that provides
additional advice on this subject and which will hopefully becirculated as an Information Document for CoP18.
Two decisions focus primarily on live Asian Elephant trade,developing strategies to manage captive animals, assessing
compliance of cross-border movements, and collaborating ona regional system for registering, marking and tracing animals.
There has been little progress, however, mainly due to a lackof responsiveness from range States except Thailand, an issue
clearly of concern. TRAFFIC supports the proposal to renew
Decisions 17.217 and 17.218 with amendments to address
the concerns relating elephant skin trade.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/an-assessment-of-thelive-elephant-trade-in-thailand/

18 CITES Briefing Document

An assessment of the live
elephant trade in Thailand,
2014
Wild live elephants were being
illegally captured to supply thelucrative tourism industry in Thailand
and urgent changes to the country’s
legislation and elephant registration
procedures are needed. At least 60%of the animals trafficked originatedin Myanmar where the capture ofelephants is considered a serious
threat to the future survival of thatcountry’s wild population of around
4,000–5,000 Asian Elephants.

REPORT ON THE
ELEPHANT TRADE INFORMATION SYSTEM (ETIS)
CoP18 Doc. 69.3
TRAFFIC’s ETIS analysis for CoP18 indicates that illegal ivory trade activity appears to be
exhibiting some measure of reduction, especially in the large raw ivory weight class, but cautions
that results could change as additional data for 2017 and subsequent years become available.
Under the CITES-led NIAP process and major new policy interventions such as China’s landmark
closure of its domestic ivory market, there is little doubt that the illegal ivory trade is experiencing
more global regulatory attention and law enforcement pressure than previously.
The current period of flux and adaptation suggests that trade flows have been disrupted
somewhat but whether it is sustained needs close monitoring. The raw data for 2017 indicatesfewer movements of large quantities of ivory being replaced by increased processing within
Africa for export of finished products to Asian markets. It is hoped that the relevant CITES Parties
respond quickly to these dynamic market changes. On the other hand, recent exceptionally large
ivory seizures in China, Viet Nam and possibly other countries in 2019 could presage resurgent
large-scale movements of ivory from Africa to Asian destinations. The supply, regulatoryand demand drivers of these apparent shifts in trade pattern need close attention. TRAFFIC
commends individual actions by key Parties, but stresses that sustained positive change will
only come from concerted and improved international co-operation.

Report on the Elephant Trade
Information System (ETIS)
CoP18 Doc. 69.3 (Rev. 1)
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/files/eng/cop/18/doc/E-CoP18-06903-R1.pdf

CITES Briefing Document

19

IMPLEMENTING ASPECTS OF RESOLUTION
CONF. 10.10 (REV. COP17) ON THE
CLOSURE OF DOMESTIC IVORY MARKETS
CoP18 Doc. 69.5
TRAFFIC fully supports the efforts of countries/territories
that wish to make the necessary legislative, regulatory andenforcement measures to close their domestic ivory market,
where they feel it is the appropriate course of action to curtail
illegal ivory trade. International efforts and co-operation,
however, must continue to be focussed on those priority
markets contributing to poaching or illegal trade. TRAFFIC
commends the action of many Parties in their implementationof domestic ivory bans, as called for in Resolution Conf 10.10(Rev. CoP17).
In China, for example, consumer research commissioned by
TRAFFIC suggests that respondents’ claims of past purchasehave reduced substantially and future intention to buy ivory
products dropped by almost half to 26% compared to 2017
before the ban took effect. Support for the ban remains very
high in 2018 with 9 out of 10 respondents saying they support it,
although unprompted awareness of the ban was only 8%. Legal
ivory shops visited by TRAFFIC have stopped selling ivory, andthe magnitude of illegal ivory trade in most surveyed cities andonline platforms has decreased. However, there are concerns
over ivory trafficking hotspots particularly at the border withneighbouring Viet Nam, as well as a rise of activity since 2017 in
China’s ivory auction market, which remains the only legitimate
post-ban commercial outlet for ivory sales. In other markets,
such as Japan’s, weaknesses in regulation of the domestic
ivory market allows persistent illegal export of ivory.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/china-ivory-ban-impacts/

20 CITES Briefing Document

China’s Ivory Auction Market:
A comprehensive analysis oflegislation, historical data andmarket survey results, 2018
This report found potential loopholes
for laundering illegal ivory andthat some auctions intentionally
mislabelled the age and materialof catalogue items in order toevade ivory trade supervision. In
February 2019, the Shanghai office ofChina’s CITES MA informed auction
houses in Shanghai and Zhejiang
and Jiangsu province they muststrictly comply with relevant laws
and regulations pertaining to ivory.
Detailed regulations regarding ivory
auctions are under preparation by
National Cultural Relics Bureau andNational Forest and Grass Bureau.

HAWKSBILL TURTLE (ERETMOCHELYS IMBRICATA)AND OTHER MARINE TURTLES (CHELONIIDAE AND
DERMOCHELYIDAE)
CoP18 Doc. 70
Parties are urged to consider the findings of the report “Status,
scope and trends of the legal and illegal international trade inmarine turtles, its conservation impacts, management options
and mitigation priorities” (CoP18 Inf. 18). Where the document
provides evidence of illegal trade of marine turtles persisting insource and/or trading countries, Parties could ask the Standing
Committee to consider country-level recommendations toaddress any emerging concerns, as well as measures to address
issues such as source site management and protection, policy
and legislative provisions, law enforcement, education andawareness-raising, and regional co-operation. Parties could also
consider if the report is sufficiently detailed to inform decisionmaking or if a more comprehensive examination of trade levels
and impacts on marine turtle populations is required.
TRAFFIC recommends that the CoP consider amendment of
the proposed draft Decision to recommend that the Standing
Committee is mandated to consider both cross-cutting andcountry-specific issues arising from the report.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/marine-wildlifeprotection-legislation-in-asean/

Review of Marine Wildlife
Protection Legislation in
ASEAN, 2018
A compilation of legislation toconserve and manage marine
species that are vulnerable to wildlife
trade-related activities in ASEAN.
It identifies relevant global andregional treaties and conventions
and summarises the measures eachcountry is obliged to take to uphold
its international commitments. The
report examines the strengths andweaknesses of the legislation andprovides recommendations for
improving the legislative framework.

CITES Briefing Document

21

ASIAN BIG CATS(FELIDAE SPP.)REPORT OF THE SECRETARIAT

CoP18 Doc. 71.1

DRAFT DECISIONS ON ASIAN BIG CATS

CoP18 Doc. 71.1

TRAFFIC research has shown a growing proportion of tiger
parts seized were suspected to be from captive breeding
facilities and that many of these facilities are poorly regulated
by existing laws. TRAFFIC therefore welcomes the proposed
suite of Draft Decisions on tigers and other Asian big cats,including those urging countries identified as of concern
to implement Decision 14.69 prohibiting the breeding oftigers for commercial trade in parts and derivatives, andstrengthen their reporting of seizures and trade in otherbig cat species such as leopards. TRAFFIC also welcomes
the draft Decision calling on the Secretariat to undertake a
mission to those Parties identified in document SC70 Doc.
51 and in whose territories there are facilities which may beof concern keeping Asian big cats in captivity.
Furthermore, TRAFFIC encourages the relevant range States
to reiterate and announce formally their official national
policies to ban trade and transport of all tiger products, andclarify the prohibition of tiger bone usage in TCM, includingfrom captive-bred tigers.

22 CITES Briefing Document

Reduced To Skin And Bones
Re-Examined: Full Analysis,
2016This comprehensive analysis of
16 years of tiger seizures showsthat Asia’s failure to ramp up
enforcement, close tiger farms,

National laws should be revised allowing for the closure ofcommercial tiger “farms”, zoos, safari parks and other captive
breeding facilities that have been found to operate illegally andban the establishment of new farms. The relevant authorities
are also urged to jointly review the operating status of alllegal tiger farms and tiger-farming individuals, including thenumber of Asian big cats kept in them. Law enforcement
efforts to implement bans on the marketing and sale of illegal
tiger products must be strengthened, including supervisionand control of online markets, which have become one of
the main channels for illegal trade of tiger products. These
efforts must be followed up with investigations that lead tostrong convictions and the imposition of deterrent penalties.
Close engagement with the private sector is also important,including with the tourism industry, to reduce demand for tiger
products among Chinese visitors heading to nearby countries
where tourist wildlife markets exist.

strengthen laws and reducedemand are to blame for thepersistent illegal trade in tiger
parts. A growing proportion oftiger parts seized are suspected
to be from captive breeding
facilities – from just 2% in
2000–2003 to at least 30% in
2012–2015. Such seizures weremost pronounced in Lao PDR,
Thailand and Viet Nam, wherecaptive breeding facilities were
found to be poorly regulated.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/
publications/reports/reducedto-skin-and-bones-re-examined/

AFRICAN LION (PANTHERA LEO)REPORT OF THE SECRETARIAT

CoP18 Doc. 76.1 (Rev. 1)

CONSERVATION OF AND
TRADE IN AFRICAN LIONS
CoP18 Doc. 76.2

The Secretariat has developed a very ambitious, wide-ranging
and comprehensive suite of Decisions drawn from a highly
consultative process. If adopted, these Decisions will address,
in a phased and targeted manner, key challenges facing theconservation of and trade in African Lions and other big cats.
They also pave the way for further research to examine moredeeply issues such as African Lion management, trade and thelinkages between trade in African Lion and other big cats.
Given these possible linkages, TRAFFIC welcomes theestablishment of a CITES Big Cats Task Force addressing
enforcement and implementation issues related to illegal
trade in big cat species from Africa, Asia and Latin America.
A TRAFFIC report found possible linkages between markets
for Lion and other large cat parts, such as the Lion bone trade

The Legal and Illegal Tradein African Lions: A study insupport of Decision 17.241e). Final Study, August 2018
SC70 Doc. 54.1 Annex
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/
files/eng/com/sc/70/ESC70-54-001.pdf

CITES Briefing Document

23

and farming of tigers: a Task Force would enhance greater co-operation among countries
most affected by illegal big cat trade. However, the clarity and focus of any Task Force would
need to be well-defined, given the complexity of issues surrounding trade in big cats, including
complications where a legal trade regime exists. It is hoped that the work of the Task Force, as
well as relevant future research, will help illuminate the dynamics of the legal trade in lion parts
with the illegal trade in Asian big cats so that any contradictions in existing policies governing
the two issues can be resolved. Discussion on the establishment of a Task Force has to dateprimarily involved consultation with African range States: it is important similar consultation isconducted with Asian and Latin American range States.
On the draft Resolution on conservation of and trade in African lions proposed in CoP18 Doc.
76.1, it should be noted that no consensus was reached by range States on this draft resolution
at the 1st Meeting of Range States for the Joint CMS – CITES African Carnivore Initiative. The
suite of Decisions proposed on African Lions, together with provisions in existing Resolutions,also appear to address sufficiently issues by the Resolution. Nevertheless, development of a
Resolution is something Parties may consider at a future meeting of the CoP.

SONGBIRD TRADE AND CONSERVATIONMANAGEMENT (PASSERIFORMES)
CoP18 Doc. 79
The document provides a broad overview of songbird trade
but acknowledges there is a lack of data on international
trade specifically that may warrant further examination by
CITES, as recommended by the draft Decision. Parties could
consider focussing the scope of this work, at least initially.
The document notes work already conducted in Asia and theConservation Strategy for Southeast Asian Songbirds in Tradethat has been developed. TRAFFIC recommends that Parties
consider a focus on this Strategy for the draft Decision
18AA, to narrow down the scope for work and anticipatedoutputs by the Ani-mals and Standing Committees.
Research by TRAFFIC and others shows the large and often
unregulat-ed scale of songbirds in trade, involving species
that are both native and not native to a particular coun-try. In
some cases, such as with White-rumped Shama Copsychus
malabaricus, research shows a poten-tially increasing trend
for international trade and these species would require CITES
consideration. Many Asian songbird species in trade are not
yet listed in CITES although there are exceptions such as
the Straw-headed Bulbul. The document helpfully includes

24 CITES Briefing Document

Caged in the City: An
inventory of birds for salein Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh
City, 2017
Viet Nam’s sizeable trade in wild
birds is going unchecked andcould harm wild populations if not
managed. TRAFFIC researchersthe list of 28 priority species identified in the Asian Strategy,
providing a good starting point for this work although this list
has recently been expand-ed to over 44 species.
The impact of songbird trade on local communities has notbeen addressed by the document. A recent TRAFFIC report
showed how the banning of wild bird exports and reduced
bird sales in urban markets in most of South America had
eliminated incomes from bird trade to local communities,
possibly leading to habitat destruction as a result of
replacement economic activities such as charcoal production(Ortiz-von Halle, 2018). The Asian Strategy mentioned above
considers the importance of community engagement, noting
the urgent need for a multilevel approach, where top-down
regulations should be conducted in tandem with bottom-up
approaches which address reducing supply while sustaining
local livelihoods. It is hoped that the work envisaged by thesedraft Decisions will take these community-related issues into
serious consideration.

found 8,047 birds of 115 species
offered for sale by 52 vendors in
the country’s largest cities: Ha Noi
and Ho Chi Minh City. Regulations
governing the trade exist for only
10% of the species observed indeed, nine of the top 10 mostabundant species recorded were notsubject to any national trade control
legislation.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/
publications/reports/caged-inthe-city/

RHINOCEROSES(RHINOCEROTIDAE SPP.)REPORT OF THE STANDING
COMMITTEE AND
SECRETARIAT
CoP18 Doc. 83.1
South Africa is home to 87% of all remaining White
Rhinoceros and TRAFFIC is gravely concernedthat its White Rhino populations are now suffering
declines that are reversing decades of uninterrupted
growth for the first time. According to the IUCN/TRAFFIC report annexed to Cop18 Doc 83.1, theKruger National Park white rhino population, thelargest in the world but continually facing the mostserious poaching threat, has now declined back to
2004 numbers. The reported decrease in detectedcarcasses of illegally-killed rhino across Africa is

CITES Briefing Document25

mitigated by the fact that there are fewer animals to poach inmany accessible locations—as many as 20% of the poachedcarcasses are never detected in places like Kruger and thereported losses still indicate that three rhino have been lost
every single day from 2013 to 2017 inclusive. The impact of
unabating poaching of Africa’s rhino over a decade is now
being seriously felt with major population reduction of the key
in situ White Rhino population.
China (including Hong Kong SAR) and Viet Nam as destinations,
Mozambique as an export/transit point, and South Africa as
the major source country were recorded in the trade chainsof over two-thirds of reported rhino horn seizures. TRAFFIC
urges that these four countries remain priorities for action
to curb the illegal rhino horn trade successfully and, in thisregard, recommends that Parties fully support Decision
18.BB proposed in the document.
Enforcement action in Viet Nam has been far more limited
than expected and its new Penal Code includes an exemption
for possession of less than 50 grams of horn, meaning
most consumers remain outside the scope of strengthened
penalties, a very unsatisfactory omission. The retreat of illegal
rhino horn trade into the deeper recesses of internet and social
media trading in Asia presents a major challenge to effective
law enforcement action. Discrepancies in trade data on
South Africa’s rhino trophy exports are of concern and could
serve to mask some degree of pseudo-hunting. For example,
South Africa reports exporting 144 rhino horn trophies to
Russia and 47 to Canada from 2013 through 2016, but thesecountries have reported no imports. Major discrepancies alsocharacterise the data between South Africa and the UnitedStates, China and Poland. In the IUCN/TRAFFIC report to
CoP17, South Africa was encouraged to take stricter domestic
measures and require the prior issuance of an import permit
to prevent such discrepancies, but no such action has yet
been taken by the South African authorities

26 CITES Briefing Document

A report from the
IUCN Species Survival
Commission (IUCN SSC)
African and Asian Rhino
Specialist Groups and
TRAFFIC to the CITES
Secretariat pursuant to
Resolution Conf. 9.14 (Rev.
CoP17)
CoP18 Doc. 83.1 Annex 2
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://cites.org/sites/default/
files/eng/cop/18/doc/ECoP18-083-01.pdf

REVISIONS TO RESOLUTION CONF. 9.14 (REV.
COP17) ON CONSERVATION OF AND TRADE IN
AFRICAN AND ASIAN RHINOCEROSES
and associated decisions
CoP18 Doc. 83.2
Kenya proposes to amend Resolution Conf. 9.14 to mandate the closure of domestic rhino
horn markets with regular reporting on actions taken; to promote the destruction of rhino
horn stockpiles; and to include privately-held rhino horn stocks as part of the annual reporting
requirement on rhino horn stockpiles to the CITES Secretariat. While the closure of rhino markets
may lie beyond the Convention’s expressed purview of international trade, it should be notedthat Parties have already agreed domestic market closure in the context of elephant ivory inparagraph 3, Resolution Conf. 10.10 (Rev CoP17) if such markets are “contributing to poachingor illegal trade”. In fact, most traditional rhino horn markets remain closed, including those in
all major consuming countries. South Africa, however, has recently instigated a legal domestic
trade in rhino horn. This move follows a 2017 court ruling overturning a 2008 moratoriumthat was imposed by the government after evidence of domestic rhino horn stocks going into
illegal international trade surfaced. Rather than re-impose a moratorium that accommodated
standard public participation processes, South Africa has opted to allow domestic rhino horn
trade under permit, even though the country functions as a source – not a consumer – country
and continues to suffer from an illegal trade problem of unparalleled dimensions. Already, in
April 2019, violations of domestic trade regulations have resulted in the arrest of two men andthe seizure of 167 rhino horns that were under permit for domestic trade. TRAFFIC therefore
supports domestic rhino horn market closures, as Kenya proposes – they appear justified
under these circumstances and are in line with CITES precedent.
Concerning the destruction of rhino horn stockpiles, it should be noted that a clear understandingof the impact of rhino horn stock destructions on illegal trade remains unclear and could result inunintended negative consequences. Demand reduction work in end-use markets has indicatedthat notions of rarity and acquiring something that very few people own has appeal to a certain
segment of the consuming market and publicised destructions may exacerbate this form of
consumption.
Finally, in terms of reporting privately-held rhino horn stockpiles, the Secretariat has proposed
draft text under point R to encourage reporting, which TRAFFIC supports.

CITES Briefing Document

27

HELMETED HORNBILL (RHINOPLAX VIGIL)
CoP18 Doc. 84
A recent TRAFFIC analysis found at least 2,878 Helmeted
Hornbill casques, skulls and products were seized fromat least 59 known confiscations from 2010 to 2017 andevidence of high poaching levels in Indonesian Borneo, while
many Helmeted Hornbill parts were openly for sale in markets
in the Special Economic Zones on Lao PDR, and online inmany countries in Asia. In May 2017, a Helmeted Hornbill
Conservation Strategy and Action Planning Workshop, heldin Sarawak, Malaysia, developed a ten-year Conservation
Strategy and Action Plan calling for unprecedented levels ofinternational collaboration and more financial resources toscale up conservation attention aimed at targeted population
recovery across the species’ range. TRAFFIC urges that thedraft Decision 18.AA in the document directs Parties to reporton their implementation of both Resolution Conf. 17.11
and the Action Plan, so that regulatory and enforcement
gaps and weaknesses can be quickly identified, and theappropriate assistance and support provided to Parties that
require it.
In February 2019, relevant experts met in Sarawak, Malaysia,
with discussions specifically focusing on Resolution Conf
17.11 resulting in a set of recommendations to strengthen
the Resolution. TRAFFIC believes that some range States will
be proposing amendments to the Resolution to incorporate
these recommendations and we urge Parties to support theseamendments.

Observations of theHelmeted Hornbill trade in
Lao PDR, 2016
TRAFFIC surveys recorded 74
Helmeted Hornbill products inthree locations: 18 in Vientiane,
36 in Luang Prabang and 20
in the Golden Triangle Special
Economic Zone. Every shop selling
Helmeted Hornbill products also
sold carved elephant ivory items
in large numbers—between 100
to over 1000 ivory products each.
The report recommends close
collaboration on investigations andlaw enforcement action between
Lao PDR and China.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/helmeted-hornbill-trade-in-lao-pdr/

28 CITES Briefing Document

SAIGA ANTELOPE (SAIGA SPP.)
CoP18 Doc. 84
Significant progress in the conservation and restoration of Saiga
Antelopes and ensuring trade in their parts is well-regulated
thanks to the ongoing efforts by relevant Parties. Co-operation
between CITES and CMS has been excellent, particularly withregards to supporting implementation of the Medium-Term
International Work Programme (MTIWP) (2016-2020) and the
CMS-CITES Joint Work Programme. The draft Decisions arefocussed on the continued implementation of MTIWP (20162020) and the development of MTIWP (2021-2025), and theseshould be fully supported.
However, marked population declines have been observed(although in some cases wild populations rapidly decline thenrebound) and the species (combining both taxa currently
recognised separately by CITES) has recently been assessed
as Critically Endangered. While legal trade may be declining
and seizures of illegal specimens are small, trade and use isstill persistent. The presence of large stockpiles outside range
States as a potential avenue for illegal trade also remains a
concern.

A rapid assessment of the
trade in Saiga Antelope
horn in Peninsular
Malaysia, 2019
During a survey of bear bile
products in TCM outlets acrossPeninsular Malaysia in 2018,
incidental observations of Saiga
Antelope horn products werenoted. It appeared to be one of
the commonest wildlife-derived
medicinal products in trade,alongside bear bile pills andporcupine bezoar

TRAFFIC believes that the proposal not to extend Decisions
17.268, 17.269 and 17.270 because they overlap with themeasures outlined in MTIWP (2016-2020) may be premature.
These Decisions may indeed overlap with some measures outlined in MTIWP (2016-2020), butissues such as consumption, use of alternative products, engagement with traditional Asian
medicine industries and consumers, labelling schemes, identification, stockpile management,
cross-border collaboration between enforcement agencies and tackling online illegal tradechannels can be addressed through CITES. Thus retention of the text in these three Decisions
may be beneficial to the conservation of the species.
DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/site/assets/files/12036/saiga-horn-malaysia.pdf

CITES Briefing Document

29

TORTOISES AND FRESHWATER TURTLES(TESTUDINES SPP.)
CoP18 Doc. 88
Much progress has been made in the implementation of theDecisions from CoP17. The draft Decisions and proposed
amendments to Resolution Conf. 11.9 (Rev. CoP13) build
strongly on this progress and should be supported, particularly
those with regards to Madagascar, with an emphasis on
greater attention to illegal trade in endemic tortoises andfreshwater turtle species. Significant seizures in the tens of
thousands, involving Appendix I listed Malagasy tortoises, aswell as many other threatened Asian Testudines, have beentaken place in recent years. Additionally, the sale of Testudines
online is significant. TRAFFIC also recommends that Parties
utilise the Manual for the differentiation of captive-produced
and wild-caught turtles and tortoises to counter the issue oflaundering of wild-caught specimens.
However, a long-standing issue is that in many transit anddestination countries, non-native CITES-listed species of
tortoises and freshwater turtles are not covered by theprovisions of national legislation. TRAFFIC believes that the
Resolution amendments should therefore make specificreference to the need to address gaps and loopholes
within national legislation, as well as a scrutiny onmarkets openly selling turtles and tortoises illegally. The
Resolution amendments to include text about “engaging
online communities” is most welcome, but this is focusedon awareness and should be expanded to ensure close
collaboration and action by governments and the online
sector to reduce and eliminate illegal trade taking place onthese platforms.

Slow and Steady: The
global footprint of Jakarta’s
tortoise and freshwater
turtle trade, 2018
Surveys found 4,985 individuals of
65 different species of tortoise andfreshwater turtles in just sevenlocations over a four-month period
in Jakarta, Indonesia, more than inprevious TRAFFIC surveys carriedout in 2004 and 2010. Nearly half
were IUCN Red Listed species andat least eight non-native species
recorded were prohibited frominternational commercial tradeunder CITES and were likely tohave been illegally imported.

DOCUMENT LINK:
https://www.traffic.org/publications/reports/slow-and-steady-the-global-footprint-of-jakartas-tortoiseand-freshwater-turtle-trade/

30 CITES Briefing Document

PROPOSALSTO AMEND APPENDICES I AND IICITES Briefing Document

31

These “Recommendations” use as their foundation the IUCN/TRAFFIC Analyses, which provide background information
underpinning TRAFFIC’s advice. As well as the CITES the ListingCriteria in Res. Conf 9.24 (Rev. CoP17) the IUCN/TRAFFIC
Analyses also took into account “Additional considerations” that
may be relevant to the decision on whether or not to adopt the
proposal (for example, implementation challenges and potential
risks/benefits for the conservation of the species concerned).
In TRAFFIC’s Recommendations to the Parties in terms ofwhether to Accept or Reject each proposal the basic question
we try to answer is: “would a proposed change to the regulatory
treatment of a species under CITES, on balance, be a good thingor not: or (in the words of Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP16))
would it be in the best interest of the conservation of the species
concerned, and be a proportionate response to anticipated risks”.

IUCN/TRAFFIC ANALYSIS DOCUMENT:
https://www.traffic.org/about-us/working-with-cites/cites-cop18/

32 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 1

REJECTCAPRA FALCONERI HEPTNERIHEPTNER’S MARKHORTransfer the population of Tajikistan from Appendix
I to Appendix II. Tajikistan
Although Tajikistan’s population does not appear to meet the
Appendix I biological criteria, there are uncertainties over theextent of a recent recovery and the sustainability and legalityof some trophy hunts. Furthermore, acceptance would result in
split-listing for this and other subspecies in Appendix I.

COP18 PROP. 2

REJECT

SAIGA TATARICA SAIGA ANTELOPE
Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Mongolia
and United States of America
Two Saiga species (Saiga tatarica and Saiga borealis) arecurrently recognised under CITES taxonomy. Saiga tatarica
populations have increased in recent years and have benefited
from national legislation, export bans and conservation actions
under the CMS MoU. Saiga borealis in Mongolia conversely
does appear to meet Appendix I biological criteria for listing,but this species is apparently outside the scope of the proposal.
An Appendix I listing of one of the CITES recognised species
would result in a split-listing, with consequent implementation
challenges.

COP18 PROP. 3

ACCEPT

VICUGNA VICUGNAVICUÑA

Transfer the population of the Province of Salta(Argentina) from Appendix I to Appendix II withannotation 1. Argentina
The population is not small, is widely distributed and increasing.
Trade would be managed like that from other Appendix II Vicuña
populations in Argentina.
CITES Briefing Document

33

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 4

VICUGNA VICUGNAVICUÑA

Amend the name of the population of Chile from
“population of the Primera Región” to “populationsof the region of Tarapacá and of the region of Arica
and Parinacota”. Chile
This simply amends the geographic name to reflect current
Chilean terminology.

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 5

GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS

GIRAFFE

Include in Appendix II. Central African Republic,
Chad, Kenya, Mali, Niger, and Senegal
Overall populations have declined, but little evidence this isdriven by illegal international trade. Populations in Namibia,
South Africa and Zimbabwe, where legal trophy hunting takes
place, are generally increasing.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 6

AONYX CINEREUS

SMALL-CLAWED OTTERTransfer from Appendix II to Appendix I.
India, Nepal, and Philippines
Illegal trade has been recorded within some domestic Asianmarkets, though the levels and impact of international tradeare little known. It is uncertain whether the clearly downward
population trends for the species meet the guidelines for amarked population decline. However, a precautionary listing
could spur enforcement efforts and oversight of claims of any
captive breeding operations.

34 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 7

ACCEPT

LUTROGALE PERSPICILLATASMOOTH-COATED OTTERTransfer from Appendix II to Appendix I.
Bangladesh, India, and Nepal
As for Prop 6, both the significance of levels of international
trade and severity of clearly downward population trends
are uncertain. However, a precautionary listing could spur
enforcement efforts and oversight of claims of any captive
breeding operations.

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 8

CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM
SIMUM SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROS
Remove the existing annotation for the populationof Eswatini. Bangladesh, India, and Nepal
This proposal does not provide adequate information on
precautionary management and trade regulation measuresthat would replace those established in the current annotation

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 9

CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM
SIMUM SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROSTransfer the population of Namibia from Appendix I
to Appendix II. Namibia
The relatively small population is increasing and does notmeet the Appendix I biological criteria. The proposal can beconsidered a special measure for transferring a taxon from
Appendix I to Appendix II.

CITES Briefing Document

35

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 10

LOXODONTA AFRICANAAFRICAN ELEPHANT

Transfer the population of Zambia from Appendix I
to Appendix II. Zambia
Although the population may not meet the App. I biologicalcriteria, the proposal gives little detail of proposed management
and precautionary measures.

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 11

LOXODONTA AFRICANAAFRICAN ELEPHANT

Amend annotation 2 for the populations of
Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe
The amendment would allow for exports of registered raw ivory
without oversight of the previous mechanisms by the Standing
Committee and CoP and there is insufficient detail to determine
whether the range States have appropriate enforcement
controls and compliance measures in place.

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 12

LOXODONTA AFRICANAAFRICAN ELEPHANT

Transfer the populations of Botswana, Namibia,
South Africa and Zimbabwe from Appendix II toAppendix I. Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon,
Kenya, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Syrian Arab
Republic, and Togo
These populations do not meet the Appendix I biological criteria.

36 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 13

REJECT

MAMMUTHUS PRIMIGENIUS

WOOLLY MAMMOTH

Include in Appendix II. Israel
While small carved mammoth and elephant ivory items canbe difficult to differentiate and listing may indeed reduce
the extent of illegal elephant ivory laundering, there is little
compelling evidence of a serious laundering problem. This
listing could also potentially complicate China’s existingelephant ivory market closure and Parties may wish to
examine other CITES mechanisms (such as a Decision or
Resolution amendment) to prompt action to address any
potential problems mammoth ivory may present.

COP18 PROP. 14

ACCEPTLEPORILLUS CONDITOR

GREATER STICK-NEST RAT

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review

COP18 PROP. 15

ACCEPTPSEUDOMYS FIELDI PRAECONISSHARK BAY MOUSE

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review

COP18 PROP. 16

ACCEPTXEROMYS MYOIDESFALSE SWAMP RAT

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review
CITES Briefing Document

37

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 17

ZYZOMYS PEDUNCULATUS

CENTRAL ROCK RAT

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 18

SYRMATICUS REEVESIIREEVES’S PHEASANT

Include in Appendix II. China
Although the international trade impact in the marked declinesof native populations in China is unclear, an Appendix II listing
may be precautionary.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 19

BALEARICA PAVONINABLACK CROWNED-CRANE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Burkina
Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal
Population declines are close to or exceed Appendix I biologicalcriteria, with trade a factor. Note the closely related (AppendixII) lookalike Grey Crowned-crane, B. regulorum is even morethreatened.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 20

DASYORNIS BROADBENTI LITORALISLESSER RUFOUS BRISTLEBIRD

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review

38 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 21

ACCEPTDASYORNIS LONGIROSTRISLONG-BILLED BRISTLEBIRD

Transfer from Appendix I to Appendix II.
Australia.
The outcome of a Periodic Review

COP18 PROP. 22

ACCEPT

if zero-export quota also proposed

CROCODYLUS ACUTUS

AMERICAN CROCODILE

Transfer the population of Mexico from Appendix I
to Appendix II. Mexico
This population no longer meets the Appendix I biologicalcriteria. Mexico has indicated it will amend the proposal toinclude a zero-export quota for wild specimens to allow theestablishment of appropriate management systems as aprecautionary measure. Any change to the zero quota would
then have to be reassessed through a subsequent proposal toamend the Appendices.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 23

CALOTES NIGRILABRIS,CALOTES PETHIYAGODAIGARDEN LIZARDS

Include in Appendix I. Sri Lanka
Both species apparently meet Appendix I biological criteria
and have appeared in International trade despite an exportban since 1993. Sri Lanka could consider listing six othernative Calotes species in Appendix III with a zero export quota.

CITES Briefing Document

39

ACCEPT

with the possible exceptionof Ceratophora aspera

COP18 PROP. 24

CERATOPHORA SPP.

HORNED LIZARDS

Include in Appendix I. Sri Lanka
All species have been offered for sale despite a Sri Lanka
export ban since 1993, and all except Ceratophora aspera
apparently meet Appendix I biological criteria. Trade in the latter
is apparently in readily identified adults: if excluded from thelisting, Sri Lanka could consider listing this species in Appendix
III with a zero export quota.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 25

COPHOTIS CEYLANICA,COPHOTIS DUMBARAPYGMY LIZARDS

Include in Appendix I. Sri Lanka
Both species have been offered for sale despite a Sri Lanka
export ban since 1993 and Cophotis ceylanica, and possibly C.
dumbara too, meet Appendix I biological criteria.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 26

LYRIOCEPHALUS SCUTATUS

HUMP-NOSED LIZARD

Include in Appendix I. Sri Lanka
Although somewhat unclear whether it meets Appendix I
biological criteria, a precautionary listing appears warranted.
Alternatively, Sri Lanka could consider listing this species inAppendix III with a zero export quota.

40 CITES Briefing Document

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 27

GONIUROSAURUS SPP.

LEOPARD GECKOS

Include the populations of China and Viet Nam in
Appendix II. China, European Union, and Viet Nam
Thirteen Goniurosaurus species are impacted by trade andmeet Appendix II criteria. Other Goniurosaurus species in China
and Viet Nam should be listed as look-alikes. Non-experts
may struggle to recognise six endemic Japanese species ofthe same genus that are outside the scope of this proposal, soJapan might consider listing these in Appendix III to monitor
any trade impacts should the proposal be accepted.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 28

GEKKO GECKOTOKAY GECKO

Include in Appendix II. European Union, India,
Philippines, and United States of America
There is widespread international trade in this species andalthough common in much of its range, there are concerns
about some national population declines. Given the large
magnitude of the trade, a precautionary Appendix II listing
appears warranted.

COP18 PROP. 29

ACCEPT

GONATODES DAUDINI

GRENADINES CLAWED GECKO

Include in Appendix I. Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines
There are reports of this species with a small population andvery restricted area for sale online despite no issuance oftrade permits.

CITES Briefing Document

41

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 30

PAROEDURA ANDROYENSIS

GRANDIDIER’S MADAGASCAR GROUND GECKO
Include in Appendix II. European Union andMadagascar
Madagascar exports around 1,200 specimens a year although it
is unclear what impact this has on populations: a precautionary
listing appears warranted.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 31

CTENOSAURA SPP

SPINY-TAILED IGUANAS

Include in Appendix II. El Salvador and Mexico
Four Ctenosaura species are already listed in Appendix II andthe species are apparently difficult to differentiate (lookalike),
particularly as juveniles. One species appears to meet theAnnex 2a criteria and two may meet the Appendix I biologicalcriteria.

REJECT

COP18 PROP. 32

PSEUDOCERASTESURARACHNOIDESSPIDER-TAILED HORNED VIPER
Include in Appendix II. Iran, Islamic Republic ofThis recently described species from Iran is believed to beof interest to hobbyists but trade appears to be limited andis illegal. The conservation benefit of Appendix II inclusion is
unclear. Iran could consider an Appendix III listing with a zero
export quota.

42 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 33

ACCEPT

CUORA BOURRETIBOURRET’S BOX TURTLE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Viet Nam
The outcome of a Periodic Review. A zero-quota is alreadyin place; benefits of an Appendix I listing are not likely to berealised unless enforcement efforts are increased.

COP18 PROP. 34

ACCEPT

CUORA PICTURATA

VIETNAMESE BOX TURTLE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Viet Nam
The outcome of a Periodic Review. A zero-quota is alreadyin place; benefits of an Appendix I listing are not likely to berealised unless enforcement efforts are increased.

COP18 PROP. 35

ACCEPT

MAUREMYS ANNAMENSIS

ANNAM LEAF TURTLE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Viet Nam
The outcome of a Periodic Review. A zero-quota is alreadyin place; benefits of an Appendix I listing are not likely to berealised unless enforcement efforts are increased.

COP18 PROP. 36

ACCEPT

GEOCHELONE ELEGANS

STAR TORTOISE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I.
Bangladesh, India, Senegal, and Sri Lanka
Although not definitively meeting relevant biological criteria,
there is undoubtedly a high level of illegal trade in this species
despite the Appendix II-listing. An Appendix I listing appears
warranted and might spur increased enforcement efforts andoversight of captive breeding operations.

CITES Briefing Document

43

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 37

MALACOCHERSUS TORNIERIPANCAKE TORTOISE

Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I. Kenya
and United States of America
The population may be small and have declined by more than
50% in the last two generations. Most exports are reported as
captive-bred but it appears wild harvest is continuing.

REJECT

COP18 PROP. 38

HYALINOBATRACHIUM
SPP., CENTROLENE SPP.,COCHRANELLA SPP.,SACHATAMIA SPP. GLASS FROGS
Include in Appendix II. Costa Rica, El Salvador,and Honduras
Based on available information, these genera apparently do notmeet the Appendix-II listing criteria.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 39

ECHINOTRITON CHINHAIENSIS,ECHINOTRITON MAXIQUADRATUS

SPINY NEWTS

Include in Appendix II. China
Both Chinese endemic Echinotriton species likely meet Appendix
II criteria. Although export is already prohibited, China may wish
to reflect this by stipulating a zero quota for wild specimens. If
this proposal is accepted, Japan may wish to list E. andersoni, in
Appendix III, so as to monitor any trade impacts.

44 CITES Briefing Document

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 40

PARAMESOTRITON SPP.

ASIAN WARTY NEWTS

Include in Appendix II. China and European Union
One Paramesotriton species (P. hongkongensis) is alreadylisted in Appendix II, and with species identification difficult—particularly dried specimens traded for traditional medicine—all other species could be included as look-alikes under Annex
2bA. Although the proposal is to list all Paramesotriton species
endemic to China and Viet Nam, as all known species are, itwould seem logical to list the genus as a whole. A zero quota
could be specified for species that are nationally protected.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 41

TYLOTOTRITON SPP.

CROCODILE NEWTS

Include in Appendix II. China and European Union
Some species of Tylototriton have shown population declines,
likely caused by over-harvesting, although it is unclear whether
this is driven by domestic or international trade. Species
are hard to separate, and taxonomy of this genus is in flux.
An Appendix II listing is therefore warranted on look-alikegrounds. A zero quota could be specified for species that arenationally protected.

CITES Briefing Document

45

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 42

ISURUS OXYRINCHUS, ISURUS
PAUCUS

MAKO SHARKS

Include in Appendix II. Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan,
Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Chad, Côte
d’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Egypt, European
Union, Gabon, Gambia, Jordan, Lebanon, Liberia,
Maldives, Mali, Mexico, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria,
Palau, Samoa, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Sudan, and Togo
There are historical and recent population decreases acrossthe majority of Isurus oxyrinchus’s range and it appears to meet
the Annex 2aB criterion. Isurus paucus is likely similarly to havedeclined, while fins and meat of both species are often mixed,
hampering their specific identification. A CITES listing would
reinforce the implementation of any existing legislation andmanagement measures.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 43

GLAUCOSTEGUS SPP.

GUITARFISHES

Include in Appendix II. Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Chad, Côte
d’Ivoire, Egypt, European Union, Gabon, Gambia,
Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Monaco, Nepal, Niger,
Nigeria, Palau, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka,
Syrian Arab Republic, Togo, and Ukraine
Populations of all six Glaucostegus species have declined,
driven mainly by over-harvest. Fins of guitarfish and wedgefish(see Proposal 44) are difficult to differentiate and therefore all
species should be listed as look-alikes under Annex 2bA.

46 CITES Briefing Document

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 44

RHINIDAE SPP. WEDGEFISHES
Include in Appendix II. Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan,
Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Chad, Côte
d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, European Union, Fiji,
Gabon, Gambia, India, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon,
Maldives, Mali, Mexico, Monaco, Nepal, Niger,
Nigeria, Palau, Philippines, Saudi Arabia,
Senegal, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syrian
Arab Republic, Togo, and Ukraine
Two species of wedgefish with population declines of greaterthan 80% are known to be affected by trade. Fins of guitarfish(see Proposal 43) and wedgefish are difficult to differentiate
and therefore all species should be listed as look-alikes under
Annex 2bA.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 45

HOLOTHURIA (MICROTHELE)FUSCOGILVA, HOLOTHURIA(MICROTHELE) NOBILIS,
HOLOTHURIA (MICROTHELE)
WHITMAEI SEA CUCUMBERS
Include in Appendix II. European Union, Kenya,
Senegal, Seychelles, and United States of America
Although data are scarce, those available indicate significant
population declines in these three species, apparently as aresult of targeted fisheries likely driven by international trade.

CITES Briefing Document

47

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 46

POECILOTHERIA SPP.

ORNAMENTAL SPIDERS

Include in Appendix II. Sri Lanka and United Statesof America
Although most reported trade is stated as captive-sourced,of the 15 recognised Poecilotheria species from India and
Sri Lanka, two—P. hanumavilasumica and P. metalica—
have restricted ranges and declining habitat and may meet
the Appendix II criteria. Other species closely resemble P.
hanumavilasumica and would qualify as look-alikes. The
taxonomy is in flux, therefore listing the genus would facilitate
future implementation. Sri Lanka could consider registering azero-export quota to reflect that export from there is illegal.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 47

ACHILLIDES CHIKAE HERMELIMINDORO PEACOCK SWALLOWTAIL

Include in Appendix I. European Union andPhilippines
This sub-species may already meet the biological criteria
for Appendix I in its own right. Accepting this proposal
and adoption of the new standard reference proposed forPhilippines swallowtail butterflies would result in Achillides
chikae being included as a species in Appendix I.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 48

PARIDES BURCHELLANUS

RIVERSIDE SWALLOWTAIL
Include in Appendix I. Brazil

This species has restricted and fragmented subpopulations
and there is evidence of illegal international trade.

48 CITES Briefing Document

COP18 PROP. 49

WITHDRAWN

HANDROANTHUS
SPP., TABEBUIA SPP.,ROSEODENDRON SPP

TRUMPET TREES

Include in Appendix II with annotation #6. Brazil
COP18 PROP. 50

ACCEPTWIDDRINGTONIA WHYTEIMULANJE CEDAR

Include in Appendix II. Malawi
This species has been exploited to the point where no mature
trees exist in the wild. While this appears to negate the need for
CITES controls, the existence of in-situ plantations of the species
that have potential for timber production in the short to medium
term may warrant ongoing monitoring and management oftrade until such time that Malawi re-establishes the species in
the wild and timber extraction is resumed.

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 51

DALBERGIA SISSOONORTH INDIAN ROSEWOOD
Delete from Appendix II. Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
and Nepal
Included under the Dalbergia genus listing at CoP17, theexpertise and technology to differentiate this species fromothers are still not widely available

CITES Briefing Document

49

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 52

DALBERGIA SPP., GUIBOURTIA
DEMEUSEI, GUIBOURTIAPELLEGRINIANA, GUIBOURTIATESSMANNIIROSEWOODS, PALISANDERS AND BUBINGAS
Amend annotation #15. Canada and European
Union

This proposal reflects the consensus reached by the Standing
Committee Working Group on Annotations.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 53

PERICOPSIS ELATA

AFRICAN ROSEWOOD

Amend annotation #5 for Pericopsis elata. Côte
d’Ivoire and European Union
This proposal would close the #5 loophole. The “transformed
wood” definition warrants inclusion in Res. Conf. 10.13.

ACCEPT

COP18 PROP. 54

PTEROCARPUS TINCTORIUS

AFRICAN PADAUK

Include in Appendix II. Malawi
A precautionary listing may be beneficial and this species is very
similar to other Pterocarpus species including the Appendix II
listed P. erinaceus. In addition, the wood of P. tinctorious isdifficult to distinguish from the Appendix-II listed P. erinaceus
and from similar un-listed species such as P. angolensis.

50 CITES Briefing Document

REJECT
COP18 PROP. 55

ALOE FEROXBITTER ALOE

Amend annotation #4 for Aloe ferox. South Africa
Without more detailed information on the concentration ofprimary and secondary Aloe ferox extracts in the products
exported it is not possible to assess whether the exemption
proposed would be in line with Res. Conf 11.21 (Rev. CoP17),
which directs that trade controls should concentrate on thosecommodities that first appear in international trade as exports
from the range State and include only those commodities that
dominate the trade and the demand for the wild resource.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 56

ADANSONIA GRANDIDIERIGRANDIDIER’S BAOBAB

Amend annotation #16 for Adansonia grandidieri.
Switzerland
According to Article I of the Convention live plants areautomatically part of a listing, so this term in the annotation isredundant.

ACCEPT
COP18 PROP. 57

CEDRELA SPP.

CEDARS

Include in Appendix II. Ecuador
Cedrela odorata populations have substantially declined
through exploitation while some look-alike listings areprobably warranted.

CITES Briefing Document51

IMAGE CREDITS
Unless otherwise stated, all photos are licensed under Creative Commons 2. Non-attribution.

PAGE

COPYRIGHT

Cover Shanaka Aravinda
1

Seánín Óg

3John Hilliard

31David Torrest Costales

32

Shanaka Aravinda

33

Top to bottom: Vince O’Sullivan, Andrew Gilgov, Leandro Neumann Ciuffo

34

Top to bottom: Frans Peeters, John Hilliard, Harlequeen

35

Top to bottom: Non-attribution, David Stang, Blake Matherson

37

Top to bottom: Non-attribution, XiscoNL, Non-attribution, John Attkinson

38

Top to bottom: Michael Barritt & Karen May, Silvain de Munck, Non-attribution, Sunphlo

39

Top to bottom: Jack Snipe, Non-attribution, Cherubino

40

Top to bottom: Calynn, Suranjan Fernando, Seánín Óg

41

Top to bottom: Non-attribution, Ola Jennersten, Beth Detloff

42

Top to bottom: Spyderco Gecko, Post Dlf, Omid Mozaffari

43

Top to bottom: Torsten Blanck, Torsten Blanck, Fredlyfish4, OZinOH

44

Top to bottom: Tjcase2, JurriaanH, Axel Hernandez

45

Top to bottom: H. Krisp, Seánín Óg46

Top to bottom: Brian J. Skerry, Non-attribution

47

Top to bottom: Ross Bennetts, Frédéric Ducarme48

Top to bottom: Non-attribution, Anaxibia, Totudu74

49

Top to bottom: Mauro Guanandi, D. J. Cockburn, Suyesh Dwivedi

50

Top to bottom: Khalid Mahmood, R. M. Caxylarium, Brent Stirton

51

Top to bottom: Stan Shebs, Jianliang Gao, João Medeiros

52 CITES Briefing Document

CITES Briefing Document

53

AUGUST 2019

TRAFFIC, the wildlife trademonitoring network, is a leading
non-governmental organisation
working globally on trade in wild
animals and plants in the context ofboth biodiversity conservation andsustainable development.
TRAFFIC acknowledges the generous
support of the Rufford Foundation in
the production of this document.
For further information contact:
TRAFFICDavid Attenborough Building,Pembroke Street,
Cambridge CB2 3QZ,
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1223 277427
E-mail: traffic@traffic.org
Website: www.traffic.org

UK Registered Charity No. 1076722,
Registered Limited Company No.
3785518.

54 CITES Briefing Document