Abstract

Recent reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) state that spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) is harvested at maximum levels throughout much of its range. In most countries there is a need to control fishing effort for this species and ensure sustainable use. Although this species is consumed domestically, a high percentage of the catch enters international trade. Brazil proposed listing Panulirus argus and P. laevicauda (Brazil populations only) in Appendix II at the 14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES. CITES Appendix II includes species that, although currently not threatened with extinction, may become so without trade controls. Regulated trade is allowed provided the exporting country issues a permit. Prior to issuing a permit exporting countries must make findings that the commodity was legally acquired and the export will not be detrimental to the survival of the species. Listing of queen conch (Strombus gigas) in CITES Appendix II has been a useful complement to national management programs. CITES also provides other ways to regulate and control international trade. Appendix I includes species in danger of extinction, for which all commercial trade is prohibited. Appendix III includes species for which a range country has asked for the cooperation of other countries in controlling international trade. Importing countries must check for export permits, issued by the country of origin, for an Appendix-III species or certificates of origin from all other countries. In this paper, we discuss ways in which CITES might be used to regulate international trade in spiny lobster

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