Customs and the control of endangered species

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates international trade in endangered animals and plants (these species are listed in the Convention itself). This Convention requires, for the legal trade of these species, a series of permits and certificates that must be verified by Customs before authorizing the goods to enter or leave a country.

Spain has been a party to the CITES Convention since May 16, 1986. The administrative authorities responsible for issuing these permits and authorizations are the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Enterprise, the Department of Customs and Excise Taxes of the State Tax Administration Agency, and the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge.

Customs, depending on the species to be traded, must check all documentation accompanying the protected animal or plant, such as the import or export permit issued by the Ministry of Foreign Trade or the competent authority of the country in question. After verifying it, Customs will process it and return it to the originating agency.

If the requirements for legitimate trade are not met, Customs may seize the specimens of wild fauna and flora and initiate disciplinary proceedings for the commission of a smuggling infraction or crime, depending on the severity of the transaction.