Hong Kong

Hong Kong was once a prominent trading centre for ivory in the 1970s and 1980s, but the industry contracted considerably following the implementation of CITES trade restrictions in 1990, and waning demand from traditional overseas consumers. However, resurgence in international ivory trade activity in the past decade, both legal and illegal, have also reinvigorated Hong Kong’s local ivory market. This has led many conservation advocates to campaign for a ban on ivory trade in Hong Kong.

The Humphead Wrasse Cheilinus undulatus is a naturally rare coral reef fish species. This study was designed to understand further the regulations in Hong Kong and mainland China, both major consumer markets, for HHW import, re-export and domestic sale; as well as the level of implementation of national laws, including inspection and enforcement practices for shipments made between Hong Kong and mainland China.