CITES: Ivory Trade

CITES has issued a request for tenders in relation to a decision-making mechanism for a process of trade in ivory.According to the Terms of Reference for the mechanism, the CITES Secretariat intends to commission an independent study on the development of a decision-making mechanism and process for future trade in elephant ivory, for review by the CITES Standing Committee. The study will not determine whether there should or should not be international trade in ivory, but will examine processes and decision-making mechanisms related to ivory trade that are or have been operating under the provisions of the Convention, as well as evaluate strengths and weaknesses of international trade regimes and associated control, and look at basic principles and factors that could guide future trade in ivory.

CITES: Ivory and Rhino Task Force

The Ivory and Rhinoceros Enforcement Task Force met at UNEP/HQ from 17-19 May to discuss urgent actions against crimes targeting elephants and rhinos. According to CITES, the meeting was attended by 20 law enforcement representatives from 12 countries who discussed the increasing demand for both rhinoceros horn and elephant ivory, despite successful actions by the law enforcement community.

They agreed on the need for better communication, collaboration and coordination, and exchange of data. They further stressed the importance of encouraging enforcement agencies to delay releasing news of significant seizures until information has been provided to relevant counterparts in countries of origin and destination, as well as to international enforcement bodies.

Press Release