International Illegal Trade In Wildlife

This detailed research study examines the illegal wildlife trade, estimated to be between $5-$20 billion per annum. The illegal trade presents several potential threats to the environment (loss of biodiversity, introduction of invasive species, transmission of disease) and national security (links between wildlife trafficking and organized crime and drug trafficking) to the United States.

Illegal wildlife trade involves the illicit procurement, transport, and distribution — internationally and domestically — of animals, animal parts, and derivatives thereof, in contravention of laws and treaties, and may include live pets, hunting trophies, fashion accessories, cultural artifacts, ingredients for traditional medicines, wild meat for human consumption (or bushmeat), and other products.

Wildlife trade regulations exist to prevent (1) the decline of species threatened or potentially threatened with extinction; (2) the importation of non-native species, which could harm the receiving habitats; (3) the importation of species that could transmit diseases harmful to humans, animals, or plants; (4) the inhumane transport of wildlife; and (5) the distortion of trade in otherwise legitimate wildlife products, through unfair foreign pricing, government subsidies, and forms of illegal trade protectionism.

The countries with the highest demand for legally obtained wildlife include the U.S., China, and the European Union. Some speculate that global demand for wildlife is increasing, potentially due to increasing numbers of wildlife species regulated by wildlife protection laws and greater awareness into the issue leading to more investigations/discovery of the crimes. Current demand in Asia is linked to specific animal parts for traditional medicine, for human consumption, and as symbols of wealth. Demand in Southeast Asia is from economic boom and affluence, while African demand is driven by bushmeat consumption. In Europe and North America, demand is linked to luxury fashion items, tourist souvenirs purchased abroad, exotic pets, traditional medicines and wildlife meats.

U.S. demand for illegal wildlife is likely to parallel U.S. demand for legal wildlife. The U.S. purchases nearly 20% of all legal wildlife. Source countries of wildlife exports, both legal and illegal, tend to include countries across the developing world with rich biological diversity. Although definitive data are unavailable, many analysts argue that countries with weak governance and poor law enforcement capacity may be especially vulnerable to the illegal wildlife trade.

The causes identified for the persistence of the international black market in wildlife include:

• Associated high profits.
• As certain types of wildlife become more endangered and rare, the price increases, along with financial rewards for traffickers.
• In developing countries, the derived income is critical for the livelihoods of hunters and traders.
• Indigenous people consider hunting a fundamental part of culture, religion, or traditions.
• Perceived low risk of penalties associated with trafficking.