The first major update and compilation of regulations implementing the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) since 1977 is being published by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne announced today.
The extensive revisions and additions clarify procedures and provide an easy-to-use guide to the requirements for international trade in plants and animals regulated by CITES.
The updated regulations are an important tool for international wildlife conservation that will help make procedures more understandable for international travelers and especially for Americans who are part of the multi-billion-dollar animal and plant import and export business.
"CITES is a vital component of our efforts to protect imperiled species across the planet," said Kempthorne.
