Species that become subject to regulation, according to specific Convention criteria, are included in appendices to the original Convention document. Each appendix specifies a different level of regulation and control. Appendix 1 includes species that are threatened with extinction and that are or may be affected by trade. Thus, most international commercial trade in these species is prohibited.
Some trade is permitted, but only for scientific or conservation purposes.
In such cases, export and import permits are required by the respective governments. Appendix 2 includes species that may become threatened if trade in them is not monitored and controlled. Appendix 2 does not bar international trade in listed species, but to trade in them, an exporter must secure a government-issued permit. It certifies that the specimens to be traded were legally obtained and that exporting them will not be detrimental to the survival of the species. Appendix 3 includes species that individual countries choose to voluntarily regulate .