All permit arrangements should be made as far in advance as possible. Import permits for Appendix I material from the FWS Federal Wildlife Permit Office. All plants imported for growing or propagation must meet plant health permit and quarantine requirements. I plants that actually were collected from the wild or to hide endangered plants in baggage. The United States is the world's largest consumer of wildlife and their products, followed by Japan and Western Europe.
Consumers can assist international efforts to protect wildlife by becoming better informed.
Reducing demand for wild-collected endangered plants is a critical part of efforts to sustain wild flora populations. However, many plants listed in Appendix I are artificially propagated and are available for purchase from reputable nurseries and other botanical sources. Always buy plants from reputable sources. Remember that most cycads, all orchids, and all cacti are endangered species. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.