What is CITES?
CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is an international agreement between governments. It regulates trade in specimens of wild animals and plants, including parts and derived products, so that international trade does not threaten their survival. Listed species can only be imported, exported or re-exported with the right permits or certificates.
Core principle: If a product contains a CITES-listed species, for example certain woods, leathers, corals or plant extracts, it needs the right documents before it moves across a border.
How species are listed
| CITES Appendix | Protection level |
|---|---|
| Appendix I | Species threatened with extinction; commercial trade is generally prohibited |
| Appendix II | Species that could become threatened; trade is allowed with export permits |
| Appendix III | Species protected by at least one country that asked others for help controlling trade |
CITES in the EU
The EU applies CITES through its Wildlife Trade Regulations, based on Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97. These use four annexes:
- Annex A: all Appendix I species plus some species with stricter EU protection
- Annex B: mostly Appendix II species
- Annex C: mostly Appendix III species
- Annex D: non-CITES species imported in volumes that warrant monitoring; an import notification is required
EU rules are in some cases stricter than CITES itself. Annex A and B species, for example, need an EU import permit as well as the exporting country’s permit.
Products that often surprise sellers
Wood and furniture
What it is: Certain rosewoods, mahogany and other timbers are listed.
Why it matters: Guitars, furniture and decorative items can need permits.
Leather and skins
What it is: Some reptile skins (crocodile, python and others) are listed.
Why it matters: Watch straps, bags and shoes may be affected.
Cosmetics and health products
What it is: Some plant ingredients and animal-derived ingredients are listed.
Why it matters: Extracts in beauty and supplement products can fall under CITES.
Example: A fashion brand imports python-leather wallets into the EU. Python species are listed, so it needs an export permit from the country of export and an EU import permit before the goods can clear customs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a species is covered by CITES?
Use Species+, the official database maintained by UNEP-WCMC, which shows CITES and EU listings for each species.
Who issues CITES permits in the EU?
Each Member State has a CITES management authority that issues import, export and re-export documents.
Can CITES goods also need a CHED?
Yes. Live animals, animal products and plants may also need health checks documented in a CHED.
Official resources: CITES Secretariat · Species+ EU wildlife trade legislation. Related: CHED.
