The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was established to limit and regulate the trade of endangered species.

CITES is an international, legally binding agreement to ensure that international trade of certain animals and plants (including wood from certain tree species) does not threaten their survival.

CITES establishes controls for the international trade of selected species. All import, export, and introduction of species covered by the convention must be authorized through a licensing system established by member countries. Each country designates one or more Management Authorities that administers the licensing system advised by one or more Scientific Authorities.

Based on the degree of protection needed, species covered by CITES are listed in three appendices:

• Appendix I – species threatened with extinction; trade is permitted but under very restricted circumstances
• Appendix II – trade of these species is controlled and regulated to ensure their survival
• Appendix III – species subject to special management within a country.

Sources: CITES website, and UNEP/WCMC’s Tree Conservation Information Service website.