China’s Reversal on Tiger and Rhino Trade Sparks U.S. Sanctions Request

China has sent conflicting signals regarding its decision to lift a 1993 ban on the sale of tiger bones and rhino horns for medicinal use. Last month, the government formally rescinded the ban, but earlier this week, a spokesperson suggested a potential reinstatement.

U.S. Urges Sanctions Amidst Conservation Concerns

The Trump administration is seeking trade sanctions on China due to the move, which could undermine global efforts to conserve endangered species. The Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society International, Humane Society Legislative Fund, and the Center for Biological Diversity filed a legal petition requesting a U.S. ban on imports of wildlife products from China under the Pelly Amendment.

Background on Previous Agreements

In 1993, the U.S. certified China’s trade in tiger bone and rhino horn under Pelly. However, China has since rescinded the conservation measures, despite tigers and rhinos facing heightened risk.

China’s ‘Farms’ and Illegal Trade

China claims tiger and rhino parts will come from ‘farms’ breeding these Animals for commercial purposes. Critics argue this will likely fuel poaching, as the market for rhino and tiger products in China will undoubtedly lead to the poaching of these Animals. The U.S. petition specifically targets imports including squid, macaque monkeys, bullfrogs, snakes, octopus, abalone and oyster.