Purpose: To provide guidance on how private sector actors, including traders, investors, and industry associations, can responsibly engage in policy discussions and decision-making processes related to CITES and the trade of high-value plant products like agarwood.
A. Importance
- Private sector input ensures practicality, market feasibility, and economic considerations are reflected in policy decisions
- Promotes compliance, sustainability, and ethical trade
- Encourages collaboration between regulators, communities, and businesses
B. Engagement Channels
- Consultations and Workshops:
- Participate in government-led or stakeholder forums to provide data, perspectives, and feedback
- Industry Associations:
- Join trade associations or sector groups that aggregate industry input for policy recommendations
- Advisory Committees:
- Serve on technical, scientific, or policy advisory committees that support management authorities
- Public Comments and Position Papers:
- Submit feedback during public consultation periods on draft policies or CoP proposals
- Collaboration with NGOs and Research Institutions:
- Partner on research, sustainability assessments, and evidence-based policy advocacy
C. Best Practices
- Maintain transparency and ethical conduct in all engagements
- Base recommendations on accurate data, market analysis, and sustainability evidence
- Ensure alignment with national laws, CITES requirements, and ESG commitments
- Document interactions and contributions for accountability and traceability
- Engage proactively in capacity building, training, and knowledge sharing to support informed policy-making
Learning Outputs
- Understanding of the role and importance of private sector engagement in policy
- Knowledge of formal and informal channels for participation in policy discussions
- Ability to provide evidence-based, ethical, and transparent input into decision-making
- Skills to collaborate with government, NGOs, and research institutions to influence sustainable trade policies