Outcomes of species proposals: 20th Conference of the Parties
Introduction
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) held its 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) from November 24 to December 5, 2025, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The Canadian delegation was led by Environment and Climate Change Canada and included representatives from:
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Natural Resources Canada
- Global Affairs Canada
The Canadian positions on species proposals and working documents were developed through consultation with government agencies and stakeholders. Species proposals were carefully reviewed, and the information was evaluated against the CITES listing criteria. Below is a summary of the CoP20 outcomes for the species proposals.
20.01 – Delete Bontebok from Appendix II
Proponent(s)
South Africa
Result
Adopted
South Africa proposed deleting an endemic antelope, the Bontebok (Damaliscus pygargus pygargus) from Appendix II. Canada supported the proposal as Canada's analysis found that the Bontebok no longer met the biological criteria for listing on Appendix II. Canada voiced its support at the CoP. In adopting the proposal, some Parties concurred with the CITES Secretariat's suggestion that South Africa complete putting in place a metapopulation plan for the species, which is currently partially implemented. This proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.02 – Include Dorcas gazelle in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, Tunisia
Result
Adopted
This proposal was for the inclusion of Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas) in Appendix II. The proponents had identified illegal hunting as the main threat to this species. There is evidence of international trade of wild and captive bred specimens. The species is also found in domestic trade in several countries. Canada was not convinced that the level of international trade constituted a threat, and was of the view that the conservation benefit of an Appendix II listing was unclear. Canada listened to the views of the range States in order to better understand the dynamics of the current international trade and how the listing could benefit the conservation of the species. This proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.03 – Amend the annotation for Saiga antelope in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Kazakhstan
Result
Amended proposal adopted
Kazakhstan proposed to amend the annotation for Saiga Antelope (Saiga tatarica) in accordance with Resolutions Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP17) and Conf. 11.21 (Rev. CoP18) by adding the wording "(except for the population Saiga tatarica of Kazakhstan)” to allow trade in wild specimens. The species has fully recovered from the mass mortality event and various safeguard measures have been developed by Kazakhstan to protect and monitor the species from another disease outbreak. The population does not meet criteria to exclude wild commercial trade. The proposal was amended during the meeting with a new annotation that clearly specifies conditions under which trade in wild specimens can occur. Canada voted in favor of the amended proposal to exclude this population from the current annotation of: “Zero export quota for wild specimens traded for commercial purposes”. The amended proposal was adopted after a vote with 111 in favour, 7 against and 14 abstentions.
20.04 – Giraffe – Exclude populations of eight countries from Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Namibia, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zimbabwe
Result
Rejected
Four range States proposed to excludethe populations of Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) of Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe from the Appendix II listing. Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev.CoP17) recommends avoiding split-listings of a species, which would place some populations of a species in one Appendix, and the rest in another Appendix or not listed. However, recent taxonomy changes that recognize those populations as a separate species, Giraffa giraffa, were presented by the proponents who noted that the species does not meet listing criteria for Appendix II. Further, the number of individuals is increasing. Strong assurances provided by the proponents demonstrated that the enforcement risks of a split-listing would be low. Canada voted in favour. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 49 in favour, 48 against and 38 abstentions.
20.05 – Include Okapi in Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Result
Adopted
This proposal was for the inclusion of the Okapi (Okapia johnstoni) in Appendix I. The Okapi is categorized as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and has been undergoing a significant ongoing decline since at least 1995 that is projected to continue. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has protection measures in place and does not authorize commercial export. While it was not certain that a listing under CITES Appendix I would resolve the existing domestic conservation issues, such a listing had the potential to support enforcement of measures already in place. Canada supported the proposal to list this endemic species in Appendix I. This proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.06 – Transfer of the Striped hyena from Appendix III to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Israel, Tajikistan
Result
Amended proposal adopted
The two proponents proposed to transfer the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) from Appendix III to Appendix I. Canada did not support the proposal as the species does not meet Appendix I listing criteria as described in Resolution 9.24 (Rev.CoP17). Primary threats to the species are habitat loss and persecution by humans. There is a low volume of legal and illegal trade in parts and derivatives of the species, especially illegal trade for traditional medicine on various online platforms. Canada voted against the proposal. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 75 votes in favour, 47 against and 13 abstentions.
The proposal was reopened during the plenary session. The proponents amended the proposal to transfer the species to Appendix II rather than Appendix I. The amended proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.07 – Transfer Guadalupe Fur Seal from Appendix I to II
Proponent(s)
Mexico and the United States of America
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to transfer Guadalupe Fur Seal (Arctocephalus townsendi) from Appendix I to II. Canada supported the proposal and the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.08 – To delete the extinct Caribbean Monk Seal from Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Mexico and the United States of America
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to delete the extinct Caribbean Monk Seal (Monachus tropicalis) from Appendix I. Canada supported the proposal and the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.09 – Amendment of the annotation of the Population of Southern white rhinoceros of Namibia listed in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Namibia
Result
Rejected
The proposal was to amend the annotation of the population of Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) of Namibia listed in Appendix II to allow trade in registered rhinoceros horn, live animals and hunting trophies. Currently, trade is for the exclusive purpose of allowing international trade in live animals for in-situ conservation only, and only within the natural and historical range of the species. Canada has strict measures on trade in raw rhinoceros horn, and consistent with its domestic measures, Canada voted against this proposal. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 31 votes in favour, 70 against and 18 abstentions.
20.10 – Transfer of the population of Southwestern black rhinoceros of Namibia from Appendix I to Appendix II with annotation
Proponent(s)
Namibia
Result
Rejected
The proponent proposed the transfer of the population Southwestern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis bicornis) of Namibia from Appendix I to Appendix II with an annotation for the exclusive purpose of allowing commercial trade in government-registered Black rhino horn. The population of Black rhino is small but stable due to existing protection and management measures, but it faces continuing threats. This proposal would have resulted in a split listing, with Namibian populations in Appendix II and the other populations in Appendix I. Moreover, Canada has strict measures on trade in raw rhinoceros horn, and, consistent with its domestic measures, Canada voted against this proposal. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 28 votes in favour, 80 against and 9 abstentions.
20.11 – Include Hoffmann's two-fingered sloth and Linnaeus's two-toed sloth in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama
Result
Adopted
Three range State Parties proposed the inclusion of two species of sloth, Hoffmann's Two-fingered sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) and Linnaeus's two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus), in Appendix II. This species is wildly distributed and listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. The species is also protected in protected areas in several range countries. While the primary threat to both species is habitat loss and fragmentation, there is evidence of international trade of wild specimens as well as illegal trade to fuel a demand for pets, notably as the species appear difficult to maintain in captivity. United States Law Enforcement Management Information System (LEMIS) demonstrates that Canada has been both an importer and exporter of sloth species. Canada listened to the additional views of the range States to better understand the current legal and illegal trade dynamics, and the value of an Appendix II listing. This proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.12 – Transfer of Golden-bellied monkey from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Result
Adopted
The proponent proposed to transfer the endemic species Golden-bellied monkey (Cercocebus chrysogaster) from Appendix II to Appendix I. Canada listened to Parties' views to better understand how the species met the listing criteria, and the extent to which international trade is threatening the species. While there are pressures from hunting and domestic trade in commercial bushmeat, international trade is low and mostly for pet trade or zoos. After the views of the range States and other Parties were expressed, the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.13 – To allow Namibia to trade in registered stocks of African elephant raw ivory of Namibian origin
Proponent(s)
Namibia
Result
Rejected
The proponent sought a fourth one-off sale and trade in an existing 46,268.30 kg stock of registered African elephant (Loxodonta africana) raw ivory (whole tusks and pieces) of Namibian origin, owned by the Government of the Republic of Namibia. This ivory stock has accumulated from elephants that died of natural causes and through management practices. The trade would have been with partners that have been verified by the CITES Secretariat to have sufficient national legislation and domestic trade controls to ensure that ivory imported from Namibia will not be re-exported and will be managed according to all CITES requirements. This proposal conflicted with Proposal 14, of which Namibia was a co-proponent, and in which deletion of paragraph g) of Annotation 10 was proposed, which would have resulted in not allowing trade in registered ivory. Canada has strict measures in place for the import and export of raw elephant ivory, and, consistent with its domestic measures, Canada voted against this proposal. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 22 votes in favour, 82 against and 14 abstentions.
20.14 – Amendments to annotation A10 to harmonize the conditions of trade in live African elephants for four populations
Proponent(s)
Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Namibia, Zimbabwe
Result
Adopted
This proposal reflected the outcomes agreed by consensus at the African Elephant Dialogue Meeting that took place in September 2024 concerning amendments to the existing annotation for the Appendix II listing of populations from Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. These amendments were proposed to harmonize the language and conditions of trade in live elephants, delete redundant text, and remove an out-of-date reference that previously authorized a one-off trade in a limited stockpile of raw ivory. The proposal was amended during the meeting to keep paragraph f) of the annotation. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.15 – Include two genera of African hornbills in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo
Result
Adopted
A number of west African Parties proposed adding two genera of African hornbills (9 species ranging across western, eastern and southern Africa), Bycanistes spp. and Ceratogymna spp., to Appendix II. The status of the various species of birds, according to the IUCN, ranges from Least Concern to Vulnerable, although many of the assessments are a decade old and may no longer be accurate. The proposal demonstrated that increasing trade of these species is occurring for their casques and parts as well as pets, while at the same time their populations are decreasing. In addition, given the trade in casques, feathers and bills, there are issues with similarity of appearance to the trade in threatened Asian hornbill species. For these reasons, Canada was supportive of the proposal as it clearly demonstrated the role of international trade in the decline of these species. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.16 – Transfer White-backed Vulture and Ruppell's Vulture from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Gambia, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to transfer White-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) and Ruppell's vulture (Gyps rueppelli) from Appendix II to Appendix I. Canada was supportive of this proposal, as the two species meet the biological criteria for Appendix I. They are listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, and there have been significant population declines. While trade is not considered the primary threat globally, regionally it may be having a greater impact. These species have delayed maturity and relatively low reproductive rates, making them especially vulnerable to high mortality or harvest and slow to recover. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.17 – Transfer Peregrine Falcon from Appendix I to Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Canada and United States of America
Result
Rejected
Canada and the United States submitted this proposal to transfer the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) from Appendix I to Appendix II. The species does not meet the biological criteria of an Appendix I listing, and the species is not threatened by extinction. The majority of international trade is from captive-bred specimens. During the discussion, concerns were raised on illegal trade, avian flu impacts and availability of population data outside the North America and Europe populations. As a result, the proposal was amended to include an annotation with a zero-export quota from the wild. The amended proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 61 votes in favour, 74 against and 7 abstentions.
20.18 – Include Great-billed seed-finch in Appendix I and include five other seed finch species in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Brazil
Result
Adopted
This proposal, in part, was to include the Great-billed seed-finch (Sporophila maximiliani) in Appendix I. This South American species meets the biological criteria for Appendix I due to its small and declining populations and is traded illegally in significant volumes for bird singing competitions and the pet trade. The proposal was also to include five other seed-finch species found in South and Central America and also Mexico (Sporophila angolensis, Sporophila atrirostris, Sporophila crassirostris, Sporophila funerea and Sporophila nuttingi) in Appendix II for look-alike reasons. After listening to the perspectives of range States, particularly for the look-alike species, Canada was supportive of this proposal, which was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.19 – Include Hispaniolan Giant Galliwasp in Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Dominican Republic
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to add the Hispaniolan giant galliwasp (Caribicus warreni) to Appendix I. This species is endemic to Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti) and is listed as Critically Endangered by the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic had not been authorizing the extraction nor issuing export permits for this species for commercial purposes. Current information suggests that the species meets the biological criteria for Appendix I, given its small population size and limited distribution. The species is under high demand by collectors, making it vulnerable to international trade. Canada supported this proposal and it was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.20 – Include Mount Elliot leaf-tailed gecko in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Australia
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to add the Mount Elliot leaf-tailed gecko (Phyllurus Amnicola) to Appendix II. This species had been listed on Appendix III since June 22, 2022, by Australia. This species is endemic to Australia, and it is listed as Near Threatened under the IUCN Red List. While the species is well-protected by Australia, there is evidence of international trade. Since the species has a small population size and limited distribution, it is vulnerable to pressure from collectors. The protections afforded by Appendix II are necessary to avoid the species becoming eligible for inclusion in Appendix I in the near future. Canada was in favour of this proposal and it was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.21 – Include Ringed thin-tail gecko in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Australia
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to add the Ringed thin-tail gecko (Phyllurus caudiannulatus) to Appendix II. This endemic species has been listed on Appendix III since June 22, 2022, by Australia. It is considered Near Threatened under the IUCN Red List. While the species is well-protected by Australia, there is evidence of international trade. Since the species has a small population size and limited distribution, it is vulnerable to collection efforts. The protections afforded by CITES Appendix II are necessary to avoid the species becoming eligible for inclusion in Appendix I in the near future. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.22 – Transfer Galápagos Marine Iguana from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Ecuador
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to list the genus of Galapagos marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus spp.) on Appendix I or transfer the Galapagos marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) from Appendix II to Appendix I. The species is the sole member of its genus and is currently included in Appendix II as Amblyrhynchus cristatus. As such, it was Canada's view that it would be unnecessary to list Amblyrhynchus spp. at the genus level because, unless specifically excluded, a reference to a species on the CITES Appendices includes its sub-species. The species has recovered from past declines and is relatively productive. The protections in place in Ecuador seem sufficient to safeguard the species and avoid the threat posed by international trade. Based on the information provided by the proponent and the best available information, Canada was of the view that the species does not meet the criteria to warrant a listing on the CITES Appendix I. However, following the views expressed, the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.23 – Transfer Galápagos Land Iguana from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Ecuador
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to add Galápagos land iguanas (Conolophus spp.) to Appendix I. All species are endemic to Ecuador, with one considered Critically Endangered and the remaining two Vulnerable according to the IUCN. Ecuador has not been allowing export of live specimens of any of these species for commercial trade. Current data suggests all species in this genus meet the biological criteria for Appendix I. One of these species (Conolophus marthae) is particularly vulnerable to capture efforts by collectors as the wild population is extremely small. Canada supported this proposal which was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.24 – Include Bale mountain's adder and Ethiopian mountain adder to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Ethiopia
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to include Bale mountain's adder (Bitis harenna) and Ethiopian mountain adder (Bitis parviocula) in Appendix I. Both species are Ethiopian endemics and the biological criteria for Appendix I are met. While having noted uncertainty regarding the extent of international trade, Canada supported the proposal and it was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.25 – Include two genera of rattlesnakes in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Bolivia (Plurinational State of), Mexico
Result
Rejected
Bolivia and Mexico proposed to include two rattlesnake species (Crotalus lepidus and Crotalus ravus) in Appendix II and to include 56 other species in the genera Crotalus and Sistrurus on Appendix II as look-alike species. Four of the 56 look-alike species in the proposal occur in Canada or occurred in Canada historically. All four species are listed under Canada's Species at Risk Act and there is no commercial trade in Canada. During the discussion, Parties and observer organizations expressed differing views. As key threats pertaining to persecution, illegal harvest and illegal trade were predominantly domestic in scope and as such, the species did not appear to meet the criteria for Appendix II. Canada voted against the proposal, which was rejected after a vote with 45 in favour, 66 against and 27 abstentions.
20.26 – Transfer Home's hinged-backed tortoise from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Cameroon, Guinea, Nigeria, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to transfer Home's hinged-back tortoise (Kinixys homeana) from Appendix II to Appendix I. The species meets the criteria for Appendix I on the basis of extensive population declines and concerns regarding unsustainable harvest from the wild, both for export and domestic use. Canada was supportive of the proposal and it was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.27 – Include four species of water frogs in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
European Union, Israel, North Macedonia
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to add four species of water frogs (Pelophylax epeiroticus, Pelophylax lessonae, Pelophylax ridibundus and Pelophylax shqipericus) to CITES Appendix II and for the entry into effect to be delayed by 18 months. The IUCN status for these species ranges from Least Concern to Vulnerable. Overexploitation for commercial export of frogs' legs, destined for the European market, is a major threat for wild populations. The harvest protection from the wild seems unequal throughout their range and is sometimes lacking. The species is also found in domestic trade in several countries. Canada was supportive of this proposal and it was adopted after a vote with 92 in favour, 21 against and 26 abstentions.
20.28 – Transfer Oceanic whitetip shark from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Argentina, Bahamas, Brazil, Comoros, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, European Union, Fiji, Gabon, Honduras, Lebanon, Oman, Panama, Samoa, Senegal, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Togo, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to transfer Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Carcharhinus longimanus) from Appendix II to Appendix I. Canada supported the proposal and it was adopted after a secret vote with 110 in favour, 22 against and 6 abstentions.
20.29 – Include Tope shark and a genus of Houndsharks in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Brazil, Ecuador, European Union, Panama, Senegal
Result
Amended proposal adopted
This proposal sought to Include Tope shark (Galeorhinus galeus), Patagonian Narrownose Smoothhound (Mustelus schmitti), and the Common Smoothhound (Mustelus mustelus) in Appendix II and all the other species in genus Mustelus (smoothhounds) in Appendix II. Brazil introduced an amendment to delay implementation of the listing by 18-months. The amended proposal was adopted by consensus.
20.30 – Transfer Manta and Devil rays from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Comoros, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Fiji, Gabon, Jamaica, Maldives, Panama, Samoa, Senegal, Seychelles, Sudan, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to transfer Manta and Devil rays (Mobulidae spp.) from Appendix II to Appendix I. Indonesia proposed an amendment to reduce the scope of the proposal to transfer only Mobula alfredi and Mobula birostris from Appendix II to Appendix I, with all other species within the family remaining in Appendix II. The proposed amendment was rejected after a secret vote with 17 in favour, 108 against and 10 abstentions. Canada opposed the amendment due to insufficient scientific evidence to warrant uplisting. The original proposal was adopted by consensus.
20.31 – Transfer Whale shark from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Argentina, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Belize, Comoros, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Fiji, Gabon, Maldives, Panama, Philippines, Samoa, Senegal, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to transfer Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) from Appendix II to Appendix I. The proposal was adopted by consensus.
20.32 – To maintain Giant guitarfish in Appendix II with the inclusion of an annotation
Proponent(s)
Bangladesh, Benin, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Maldives, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to maintain Giant guitarfish (Glaucostegus spp.) in Appendix II with an annotation of “a zero annual export quota for wild-taken specimens traded for commercial purposes”. Canada opposed the proposal as the annotation of ‘zero export quota for wild-taken specimens traded for commercial purposes' is similar to requirements of Appendix I inclusion (no commercial trade), and the proposal did not meet the biological criteria for including in Appendix I. The proposal was adopted after a secret vote with 105 in favour, 23 against and 7 abstentions.
20.33 – Maintain Wedgefishes in Appendix II with the inclusion of an annotation
Proponent(s)
Bangladesh, Benin, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Maldives, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Togo
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to maintain Wedgefishes (Family Rhinidae) in Appendix II with the inclusion of the annotation “a zero annual export quota for wild-taken specimens traded for commercial purposes”. Canada opposed the proposal as the annotation of ‘zero export quota for wild-taken specimens traded for commercial purposes is similar to requirements of Appendix I inclusion and the proposal did not meet the biological criteria for including in Appendix I. The proposal was adopted after a secret vote with 118 in favour, 20 against and 2 abstentions
20.34 – Include all species in the Gulper shark family (Centrophoridae spp.) in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Brazil, Comoros, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, European Union, Lebanon, Nigeria, Panama, Senegal, Syrian Arab Republic, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to include Dwarf gulper shark (Centrophorus atromarginatus), and the gulper shark (Centrophorus granulosus) in Appendix II and the rest of the species in the family Centrophoridae spp. as look-alike species. The United Kingdom proposed an amendment to include delayed entry into force of 18 months. Canada opposed the amended proposal as there was insufficient scientific data quantifying the extent of decline across the species' full range. The amended proposal was adopted after a secret vote with 113 in favour, 19 against and 6 abstentions.
20.35 – Include all non-listed species in the genus Anguilla in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
European Union and Panama
Result
Rejected
This proposal sought to include Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) and American eel (Anguilla rostrata) in Appendix II and all the remaining non-CITES listed species of the genus Anguilla for reasons of similarity to the CITES listed European eel (Anguilla anguilla) or to one of the two proposed species (Japanese eel and American eel)as look-alike species. The proposal proposed implementation delayed by 18 months. Canada intervened to oppose the proposal.
The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 35 in favour, 100 against and 8 abstentions.
20.36 – Include six sea cucumbers in CITES Appendix II
Proponent(s)
European Union
Result
Amended Proposal Rejected
This proposal sought to include sea cucumbers of the genus Actinopgya: Actinopyga echinites, A. mauritiana, A. miliaris and A. varians in Appendix II and for reasons of similarity to include A. lecanora and A. palauensis in Appendix II. The European Union proposed an amendment to the proposal to include delayed entry into force of 18 months. The amended proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 50 in favour, 76 against and 9 abstentions. Canada opposed the proposal because the biological criteria for Appendix II inclusion was not met.
During the plenary session, Monaco made a motion to reopen the debate on the proposal, and debate was reopened after a secret vote with 49 in favour, 79 against and 12 abstentions. Monaco proposed an amendment to include a 24-month implementation delay. Canada opposed the amended proposal for the same reason as the original proposal, as the scope of the proposal remained the same. The amended proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 59 in favour, 72 against and 8 abstentions.
20.37 – Include Golden sandfish sea cucumber in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
European Union
Result
Amended Proposal Adopted
This proposal sought to include Golden sandfish (Holothuria lessoni) in Appendix II. The European Union proposed an amendment to the proposal to include delayed entry into force of 18 months. Canada supported the amended proposal and the amended proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.38 – Include Chilean rose tarantula in Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Argentina, Panama, Plurinational State of Bolivia
Result
Amended proposal adopted
This proposal was to include the Chilean rose tarantula (Grammostola rosea) in Appendix II, along with 14 other tarantula species for look-alike reasons. Canada opposed the proposal as, based on available information, Grammostola rosea does not meet listing criteria for CITES Appendix II and therefore the other 14 species do not merit listing for similarity of appearance. The proposal was rejected after a secret vote with 72 votes in favour, 54 against and 9 abstentions.
The proponent reopened the proposal during the plenary session to reduce the scope and proposed to list only Grammostola rosea on Appendix II. The amended proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.39 – Include South Africa's population of South African Abalone in Appendix II with an annotation
Proponent(s)
South Africa
Result
Withdrawn
The proposal to include South African abalone (Haliotis midae) in Appendix II with an annotation “dried specimens only” was withdrawn by the proponent without debate.
20.40 –Amend annotation #3 for American ginseng to exempt finished products packaged and ready for retail trade of thin-sliced roots derived from artificially propagated plants
Proponent(s)
United States of America
Result
Rejected
This proposal sought to exempt from CITES controls, finished products packaged and ready for retail trade of thin-sliced roots derived from artificially propagated American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Canada intervened as a range State to oppose the proposal, noting that it would reduce the ability to monitor and control the trade in this type of ginseng product. American ginseng is endangered within Canada, and a significant threat is illegal harvest from wild populations. Canada noted the potential enforcement challenges in distinguishing between slices from wild-sourced roots and artificially propagated roots. Several Parties also intervened to oppose the proposal. The proposal was rejected by consensus.
20.41 – Include Chilean palmin Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Chile
Result
Adopted
This proposal sought to include the Chilean palm (Jubaea chilensis), in Appendix I. Canada had concerns with this proposal and was of the view that an Appendix II listing might be more appropriate based on the current information. After the views of other Parties and additional information from the range States were provided during the meeting, the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.42 – Include two species of Ponytail palm in Appendix II as a part of the listing of the genus Beaucarnea
Proponent(s)
Mexico and Switzerland as the depository government
Result
Adopted
The proposal sought to include two species of Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea glassiana and Beaucarnea hookeri) in Appendix II as a part of the listing of the genus Beaucarnea. These two species were previously considered part of the genus Calibanus; however, following molecular testing, they were found to be part of the genus Beaucarnea. At the 27th CITES Plants Committee, these two species were included in the standard nomenclature reference for Beaucarnea. When Beaucarnea was listed in 2017, it did not include these two species, so a new proposal was required to add them to the listing. Canada supported the proposal since the species met the look-alike criterion for inclusion in Appendix II. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.43 – Include Indian Bdellium to Appendix II
Proponent(s)
European Union
Result
Amended proposal adopted
The European Union proposed to include Indian Bdellium (Commiphora wightii) in Appendix II, to ensure sustainable use of its resources. Canada agreed with evidence presented that the species was threatened by trade in parts of its range but noted the minimal information for some range States. Canada was also concerned about the broad scope of the proposal. Canada voted in support of the original proposal, considering in particular the views expressed by range State Pakistan, as well as the evidence of decline in parts of the plant's range. The original proposal was rejected after a vote with 69 in favour, 42 against and 18 abstentions.
The proposal was reopened in plenary; Pakistan proposed an annotation to exclude certain finished products, packaged and ready for retail trade. Canada supported the amended proposal which was adopted after secret vote in plenary with 79 in favour, 39 against and 15 abstentions.
20.44 – Transfer Cycad spurge from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
South Africa
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to transfer Cycad spurge (Euphorbia bupleurifolia) from Appendix II to Appendix I. Demand for the illegal wild harvest of this South African endemic plant is driven both by local traditional medicinal trade and by the international horticultural trade; both have been significant contributors to population declines. CITES criteria for inclusion on Appendix I are clearly met. Canada was supportive of this proposal and the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.45 – Remove six national populations of Red Doussié from Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, presented by Congo
Result
Rejected
This proposal sought to remove certain populations of Red Doussié (Afzelia bipindensis) from Appendix II, highlighting new developments in wood identification that would allow for the species to be distinguished. Canada was not convinced that technology was available to enforcement agents to differentiate processed timber within a single region, and therefore the look-alike criterion continued to apply. Split-listings within a single region are normally not permitted in CITES, as they can facilitate illegal timber trade. Canada did not support the proposal and voted against it. The proposal was rejected after a vote of 49 in favour, 56 against and 24 abstentions.
20.46 – Transfer Brazil wood from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
Brazil
Result
Amended proposal adopted
This proposal sought to transfer Brazil wood (Paubrasilia echinata) from Appendix II to Appendix I to combat illegal trade. Canada had concerns that insufficient time may have passed since the decisions at CoP19 to evaluate the impact of current CITES activities to improve enforcement, traceability, stockpile control and sustainable plantations, and that such a listing would pose barriers for cross-border trade and transportation in musical instruments. Canada chaired a working group where the proposal was discussed. Ultimately an amended proposal was adopted by consensus to retain Paubrasilia echinata in Appendix II with a revised Annotation which would exempt non-commercial trade in music instruments and parts transported for specific purposes and establish a zero-export quota for all other purposes. Expanded decisions on enforceability, traceability, and stockpile inventory and control were also recommended by the working group and adopted in plenary.
20.47 – Remove the populations of African Padauk for seven Parties from Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon
Result
Rejected
Proponents sought to remove populations of African Padauk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) for Angola, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, from Appendix II, highlighting new developments in wood identification that would allow for the species to be distinguished. Canada was not convinced that technology was available to border agents to differentiate processed timber within a single region, and therefore the look-alike criterion continued to apply. Split listing proposals within a single region are normally not permitted in CITES, as they can facilitate illegal timber trade. At the meeting, Canada sought more information on traceability, identification tools/techniques and their prevalence at borders, and the risks posed by timber consolidation activities in Cameroon. Canada voted against the proposal and the proposal was rejected after a vote of 51 in favour, 57 against and 20 abstentions.
20.48 – Amend the listing of the genus Aloe in Appendix II to include four species previously excluded from the CITES appendices
Proponent(s)
South Africa, Switzerland, Zimbabwe
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to amend the Aloe spp. listing on Appendix II to include four species, Aloe bergeriana, Aloe jeppeae, Aloe subspicata, and Aloe welwitschia. The four species had been previously considered to be in a different genus that is not included on a CITES Appendix. However, following phylogenetic research, the four species are now considered to be in the Aloe genus. Canada was supportive of the proposal and the proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.49 – Transfer Parlatore's Podocarp from Appendix I to Appendix II
Proponent(s)
Argentina
Result
Adopted
Argentina proposed to transfer Parlatore's Podocarp (Podocarpus parlatorei) from Appendix I to Appendix II based on the rationale that there has been no international trade other than for scientific or personal purposes since its Appendix I listing in 1975, and that the biological criteria for inclusion in Appendix I are no longer met. Many Parties, including the other range State, Bolivia, expressed their support for the proposal. However, since other Parties voiced opposition to the proposal, Argentina revised the proposal to add a zero-export quota for wild-taken specimens for commercial purposes. Canada supported this amended proposal, but the amended proposal was rejected after a vote with 69 in favour, 38 against and 18 abstentions.
The proposal was re-opened in plenary. The amended proposal with a zero-export quota for wild-taken specimens for commercial purposes was discussed; many Parties spoke to support the proposal, and no Parties spoke to oppose the proposal. As such, the amended proposal was adopted by consensus.
20.50 – Transfer Avonia quinaria from Appendix II to Appendix I
Proponent(s)
South Africa
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to transfer Avonia quinariaFootnote 1 from Appendix II to Appendix I. Canada supported this proposal, as the demand for the illegal wild harvest of this dwarf succulent plant is driven by the international horticultural trade and has played a significant role in recent declines. CITES criteria for inclusion on Appendix I are clearly met. The proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.
20.51 – Amend annotation #4 f) regarding the plant species Aloe ferox and Euphorbia antisyphilitica for readability purposes
Proponent(s)
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Result
Adopted
This proposal was to amend annotation #4 as follows: f) finished products packaged and ready for retail trade of Aloe ferox and Euphorbia antisyphilitica packaged and ready for retail trade. Canada supported this small change in the wording of the current Annotation #4 as proposed and agreed by the CITES Standing Committee. The amendment aimed to simplify and align wording among the paragraphs of Annotation #4 for readability purposes. This proposal was adopted by consensus at CoP20.