RIYADH, 21 October 2004 — Saudi Arabia has tightened restrictions on trading in wildlife animals in a renewed attempt to ensure protection of rare animal species. The restrictions will discourage sale, import and ownership of carnivorous animals and endangered species, said Dr. Hani M.A. Tatwani, director of permits and adviser of international relations at the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development (NCWCD), here yesterday.
Dr. Tatwani said “individuals and animal owners, who have been importing carnivorous animals, will no longer be allowed to bring them into the country”. The ban covers many animals like lions, tigers, jaguars and hyenas. The official, however, said that zoos and other institutions authorized by the government will be exempted from this restriction and they will be free to import any animals.
Asked about the import and sale of animals, fish and birds at pet shops, he said “some of the shops including nurseries have permits to sell certain species of animals or birds, but many of them have no permits”.
“Some pet shops may have been violating the local rules and regulations,” said the official, adding that government agencies including NCWCD are trying to streamline the whole sector.
Pet shops in the Kingdom will be asked to follow local regulations, which comply with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, to which Saudi Arabia is a signatory, he said. Pet shops will be inspected more frequently to ensure that they are not trading in endangered animals or species.
