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Conservation of and trade in great apes (Hominidae spp.)

Document type
Decision
Reference number
20.77
Date
Dec 5, 2025
Source
UNEP, InforMEA
Status
Active
Subject
Wild species & ecosystems
Treaty
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Mar 3, 1973)
Meeting
Twentieth meeting of the Conference of the Parties
Website
cites.org
Abstract

Decision directed to Parties

Parties affected by illegal trade in great apes are urged to: a) review their implementation of Resolution Conf.13.4 (Rev.CoP18) on Conservation of and trade in great apes, to ensure that all aspects of the Resolution are fully implemented; b) initiate or enhance national level law enforcement operations specifically targeting illegal trade in great ape specimens; c) make every effort to identify seized great ape specimens at species level and report the seizures at species level in their annual illegal trade reports; d) prioritize the disposal of live confiscated specimens to the country of origin or if that is not possible to an accredited sanctuary within the natural range of the species; e) avoid trade in live specimens sourced from the wild, confiscated, or of unknown origin (source codes W, I and U) other than in exceptional circumstances; f) take into account Resolution Conf. 11.3 (Rev CoP20) on Compliance and enforcement regarding obligations to verify the validity of CITES permits and certificates for live great apes; and g) report to the Secretariat on measures taken to implement Decision 20.77.