The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today proposed the first major update of regulations implementing the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) since 1977. The extensive revision is part of an effort to simplify procedures and reduce paperwork, while helping to ensure effective global wildlife conservation.
The regulation update package, published in todays Federal Register, reflects consideration of more than 200 public comments received by the Service on a similar package that was introduced, but not finalized, in 2000. The new package also incorporates measures adopted by CITES partners since 2000.
Since the inception of CITES 31 years ago, member nations have adopted more than 200 resolutions providing guidance on implementation of the treaty. The new regulation package pulls together provisions of the 79 resolutions that are currently in effect.
"These regulations represent a major piece of administrative housekeeping that will assist Americans in the conduct of lawful international trade in CITES species and will improve our ability to implement the management, scientific and enforcement provisions of CITES," said Service Director Dale Hall.
The regulation package will affect Americans who import or export CITES wildlife or plants. The proposed rules apply to trade in CITES species, whether commercial or non-commercial, including scientific, zoological and botanical imports and exports. They also apply to international travelers who want to bring CITES wildlife or plants or their products, into theUnited States.
The regulation package is designed to help customers who are seeking information about various aspects of the permitting process and is intended as an easy-to-use guide on what is needed to conduct international trade in CITES species. Most parts of the proposed regulations explain procedures and requirements already in effect.
The public may comment on the regulation update package over the next 60 days through the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Comments may also be sent via email to part23@fws.gov, faxed to 703-358-2280, or mailed or delivered in person to Dr. Peter Thomas, Chief, Division of Management Authority, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Room 700, Arlington,Virginia22203.
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visit our homepage at http://www.fws.gov
