Purpose: To explain the importance of maintaining chain-of-custody (CoC) records for agarwood and other high-value plant products, ensuring traceability, legal compliance, and sustainability verification.
A. Definition
- Chain-of-Custody documentation tracks a specimen from origin (plantation or wild source) through harvest, processing, storage, and final sale or export
- Ensures that all movements are recorded, verifiable, and compliant with CITES regulations
B. Key Elements of CoC Documentation
- Origin Details: Plantation or wild-source identification, GPS coordinates, certification
- Harvest Records: Date, method, quantity, responsible personnel
- Processing Logs: Type of processing, resin extraction, product form
- Storage Records: Location, inventory, handling conditions
- Sales and Shipment Records: Buyer information, permits, invoices, packing lists
- Permit and Certificate Linkage: CITES export, import, or re-export documents attached to each shipment
C. Importance for CITES Compliance
- Demonstrates legal origin of all specimens
- Supports NDF assessments and traceability requirements
- Reduces risk of illegal trade or mislabeling
- Provides evidence during audits, inspections, or legal proceedings
D. Practical Recommendations
- Implement digital tracking systems for inventory and movement logs
- Ensure consistency between CoC, permits, invoices, and packing lists
- Train staff on accurate record-keeping and verification processes
- Conduct periodic audits to verify integrity of CoC data
Learning Outputs
- Understanding of the purpose and components of chain-of-custody documentation
- Ability to implement CoC systems for agarwood plantations and trade operations
- Awareness of CoC’s role in ensuring CITES compliance, sustainability, and market credibility