5.1 CITES Permits & Certificates (Export, Re-Export, Import)

Purpose: To provide detailed guidance on the types of CITES permits and certificates, their specific uses, and how they apply to agarwood and other high-value plant species in international trade.

A. Export Permit

  • Required for all exports of Appendix I and II species
  • Confirms that the specimen was legally obtained
  • Ensures trade is non-detrimental to the species
  • Must include:
    • Correct species name and annotation
    • Source code (W, A, D, etc.)
    • Quantity and purpose of export

B. Re-Export Certificate

  • Required when a specimen previously imported is being exported again
  • Confirms the legality of the original import and current trade
  • Must accompany the shipment through all transit points

C. Import Permit

  • Required for Appendix I species and any stricter national measures for Appendix II
  • Confirms that the importing country permits the entry of the species
  • Helps ensure legal trade and prevent illegal entry

D. Application Process

  1. Exporter Preparation: Gather NDFs, source verification, and plantation or wild-harvest records
  2. Submission to Management Authority: Include all required documentation
  3. Review: MA verifies compliance with CITES listings, annotations, and quotas
  4. Permit/Certificate Issuance: MA issues the relevant permit or certificate
  5. Border Clearance: Customs authorities verify permit authenticity and shipment details

E. Compliance Considerations

  • Permits and certificates are mandatory for all international trade
  • Ensure accuracy of species, source, and quantity
  • Maintain copies for record-keeping and audits
  • Misuse or missing permits can lead to seizure, fines, or trade suspension

F. Practical Recommendations

  • Establish internal compliance checks before applying for permits
  • Use digital systems to track permit status, source codes, and shipment details
  • Coordinate with Management and Scientific Authorities early to avoid delays
  • Train staff on the specific requirements for export, re-export, and import permits

Learning Outputs

  • Understanding of the types of CITES permits and certificates
  • Ability to follow the application and issuance process
  • Awareness of compliance requirements and potential risks for agarwood trade