CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

CITES, or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is an international agreement aimed at ensuring that trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Established in 1975, it involves 184 countries, which work together to regulate and monitor the trade of species that are vulnerable or at risk of extinction. CITES lists species in three categories, depending on the level of protection they need. The goal is to promote sustainable use and conservation of biodiversity, balancing human needs with wildlife protection.