CITES
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement between governments that regulates the trade of endangered species without permits. CITES applies to over 100 species found around Sint Maarten, as well as any other non-native species imported to the island.
In order to transported CITES-listed species across international borders, individuals must apply for CITES permits in the country of export and occasionally import through the relevant CITES management authority for that country. It is illegal to transport CITES species without proper documentation and doing so carries criminal consequences.
Sint Maarten is a member (“Party”) of the CITES convention through local legislation. The Nature Foundation is the designated authority with authorization to issue CITES import and export permits for the country, appointed by the Minister of VROMI.
Don’t know if your species is CITES-listed?
Visit the CITES Checklist or Species+.
Background
The goal of CITES is to prevent the exploitation of wild species via trade since the demand for a particular animal or plant product in one place can harm the population of the species in another region. The United Nations estimates that the illegal trade is worth between $7 billion and $23 billion a year. While the wildlife trade is devastating for ecosystems and species, it also harms local economies, societal stability, and human health.
Resources
CITES
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a CITES permit?
To apply for a CITES permit from Sint Maarten, you must submit a request and paperwork to the Nature Foundation at director@naturefoundationsxm.org. The estimated timeline for the return of the approved permit is no less than two (2) weeks. Include the following in your email:
- Appendix of the species according to CITES
- The species, including its Latin name
- The amount (weight) or quantity (numbers) of the species
- An exporter and importer address and countries
- The purpose of the transaction
- If alive, how the live species will be transported
- If a re-export, include the previous import and export permits
- If importing, include copies of the export permits
For CITES on French Saint-Martin, please communicate with the authorized authorities at Direction de l’environnement, de l’aménagement et du logement (DEAL) Guadeloupe.
What are some local species covered by CITES?
These are some of the most commonly found or traded species protected by CITES. This is not a comprehensive list and does not reflect the totality of CITES-listed species around St. Maarten. Note that all CITES Appendix I species native to Sint Maarten are also protected under local law. Find the CITES list here.
- All coral species
- All cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises)
- All sea turtle species (Cheloniidae and Dermochelys)
- All orchid species (Orchidaceae)
- All cacti species
- All parrots
- Queen conch (Strombus gigas)
- Green iguana (Iguana iguana)
- Seahorse species (Hippocampus)
- Manta ray (Manta birostris)
- Great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran)
- Whale shark (Rhincodon typus)
- Red footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius)
- Green-throated Carib hummingbird (Eulampis holosericeu)
- Antillean crested hummingbird (Orthohyncus cristatus)
- Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
- Lignum vitae (Guaiacum officinale)
- All boas and pythons
- All alligators, crocodiles and caimans
- Some bats
What does it mean for a species to be protected by CITES?
A species that is protected under CITES is regulated and cannot be transported across national borders without proper documentation, permits, and certification, whether it is dead or alive. This includes its body parts or any derivatives, such as shells or feathers.
What are the different CITES Appendixes?
Appendix I affords the highest level of protection and covers endangered species since they are at risk of extinction. Trade is prohibited for all but the most extenuating of non-commercial circumstances, such as scientific research. Importation and exportation require extensive review and permits. Appendix I protects 1,082 species globally. In St. Maarten, Appendix I protects over a dozen sea turtles and whale species.
Appendix II lists species at risk of becoming endangered if governments do not proactively control the trade. Trade is regulated. Exportations are allowed with a permit or certificate after inspection and review, and an import permit is not mandatory. It also regulates the exchange of “look-alike species” to protect the threatened species they resemble. Appendix II covers 37,420 species globally. In St. Maarten, Appendix II protects 89 species of coral, sharks, and cetaceans.
Appendix III applies to species that may be at risk locally in a particular country. In this case, a country asks CITES for assistance in protecting the international trade of a species. Other Parties cooperate with Appendix III and regulate their trade according to the agreed-upon controls. Trade is allowed but monitored. Appendix III covers 211 species globally. In St. Maarten, no species are listed under Appendix III.
Who manages and takes part in CITES internationally?
CITES international is managed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and was passed in 1975. With over 180 Parties, CITES protects over 5,950 animal species and 32,800 plant species globally.
