What is CITES?
CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement that regulates the trade in endangered animal and plant species with the goal of ensuring their long-term survival in the wild. Over 180 countries have signed this agreement, which currently protects more than 38,000 species. Species are divided into three appendices (I, II, and III), depending on their level of protection needs.
In Switzerland, CITES is legally implemented through the Ordinance on Trade in Protected Species of Animals and Plants (OHtP). The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is responsible for monitoring compliance.
What does this mean for our work?
When taxidermy or transporting protected species—be it a skull, bone, fur, or a whole animal—a CITES permit may be required, even if the animals are already deceased or found. In such cases, we are happy to assist you in determining whether a permit is required and, if desired, assist you with the application process.
Who is responsible in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) share responsibilities within the framework of CITES – depending on the animal species and intended use.
The FOEN is responsible for wild species, such as wild animals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and protected plants. It regulates the import and export, as well as the use, of taxidermied specimens—including skulls, skins, and bones—and processes the corresponding permits for private individuals, taxidermists, museums, and scientific institutes.
The Federal Office for the Environment, on the other hand, is responsible for domestic and farm animals protected by CITES, such as parrots, turtles, and exotic pets. It primarily deals with live animals in connection with keeping, breeding, trade, animal transport, and zoos. Veterinary and public health aspects also fall within its remit.
For CITES inquiries at the FSVO, you can contact the responsible department by email at: cites@blv.admin.ch .
