AMENDMENTS TO APPENDICES OF THE CITES REGULATIONS, 2010
Title: Amendments to Appendices I and II to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) Regulations, 2010
Government Gazette Notice: GN 529 in GG 40889 of 5 June 2017
Commencing Date: 2 January 2017
Appendices I and II of the CITES Regulations, 2010 specify certain species of which the importation and exportation must be regulated. Appendix I lists species that are the most endangered among CITES-listed animals and plants. They are threatened with extinction and CITES prohibits international trade in specimens of these species except when the purpose of the import is not commercial, for instance for scientific research. In these exceptional cases, trade may take place provided it is authorized by the granting of both an import permit and an export permit (or re-export certificate).
Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. It also includes so-called “look-alike species”, i.e. species whose specimens in trade look like those of species listed for conservation reasons. International trade in specimens of Appendix-II species may be authorized by the granting of an export permit or re-export certificate. No import permit is necessary for these species under CITES (although a permit is needed in some countries that have taken stricter measures than CITES requires). Permits or certificates should only be granted if the relevant authorities are satisfied that certain conditions are met, above all that trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild.
During the 17th Conference of the Parties held at Johannesburg in 2016, the content of these two appendices have been amended.
So what for my operation?
If you are involved in the international trade of species, it is important for your organization to take note of the amendments to the appendices of CITES and to ensure that you comply with all relevant legal requirements.
What is Shangoni’s approach?
Shangoni can assist you in identifying legal requirements pertaining to international trade of species. For more information, contact Jan Nel at jan@shangoni.co.za.
