CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is an international agreement between governments which aims to ensure that international trade in animals and plants does not threaten the survival of species in the wild. CITES protects tens of thousands of species from over-exploitation through international trade. These species are listed in one of the three CITES Appendices , depending on the degree of protection required. Efficient access to these Appendices – and to information on species listed in other Multilateral Environmental Agreements such as the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) – is critical for managing threatened species.

 

The CITES Trade Database, managed by UNEP-WCMC on behalf of the CITES Secretariat, is a comprehensive resource that holds more than 23 million records of international trade in CITES-listed animals and plants. Dating back to 1975, the database reflects the official trade records (wildlife exports and imports) as reported by Parties in their annual reports to CITES. On average, over one million records of trade are added to the database every year. The CITES Trade Database supports the implementation of the Convention and serves as an indispensable source of information for the CITES Parties, policy-makers, NGOs, academics and the general public. The database is publicly accessible and facilitates monitoring of trade levels and trends, examination of trade routes, and improves our understanding of global supply and demand for wildlife and wildlife products.