CITES Appendix II refers to a category of species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) that are not necessarily threatened with extinction, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled.
Key Points about CITES Appendix II:
- Purpose: To ensure that international trade in specimens of these species is sustainable and does not threaten their survival in the wild.
- Trade Regulation:
- Export permits are required (issued by the exporting country).
- No import permit is required (except if required by national law).
- An export permit is only granted if:
- The trade will not be detrimental to the species’ survival (based on a Non-Detriment Finding or NDF).
- The specimen was legally obtained.
- Examples of Species:
- Aquilaria spp. (Agarwood trees)
- Cycas spp. (Cycads)
- Panthera pardus (Leopard)
- Many species of orchids, cacti, and timber trees.
- Implications for Business (e.g., Agarwood):
- Must comply with CITES regulations for international trade.
- Need proper documentation (CITES export permit, NDF).
- May require additional permits (e.g., DENR Certificate of Wildlife Registration in the Philippines).
- Promotes traceability and legal sourcing, which can increase buyer trust.
- Benefit:
- Legal trade can continue under regulation, allowing for conservation through sustainable use rather than outright bans.