Wildlife trafficking

Topic

Wildlife trafficking, also known as wildlife smuggling or the illegal wildlife trade, involves the illicit gathering, transportation, and trade of endangered species, protected wildlife, plants, and their derivatives. It is a major global black market driven by high demand for exotic pets, traditional medicines, food, and luxury goods, posing severe threats to biodiversity and ecosystems. Efforts to combat this illicit trade are coordinated internationally through frameworks like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).