The Implementation of CITES in China

INTRODUCTION The Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was adopted in March 1973 and entered into force in July 1975. Today, with 118 Parties, CITES has been recognized as one of the most important international conventions for the conservation of wildlife. Developments within the last few years concerning CITES have brought China - a Party to CITES since 1981 - to the centre of international attention. Controversy has arisen over China's use of animal parts for making handicrafts and as medicine. The old, long-kept cultural traditions on one hand, and China's commitments under CITES on the other, have been severely tested. This chapter addresses some aspects of implementation of CITES in China and touches upon some issues of wide discussion within CITES.