In March 2023, prosecutors in Nanyang, central China’s Henan Province, dropped charges in a case involving the trade of macaques, citing recent changes in wildlife protection laws and judicial interpretations. This decision has ignited a national discussion on the impact of China’s amended Wildlife Protection Law on conservation efforts and sustainable use of wildlife resources.
The revised law, which China’s top procuratorate and court elaborated on in an interpretation document published in April 2022, offers more detailed regulations for managing wildlife populations. One significant change is the “graded, categorized management of wild animals bred in captivity.” Under the amended Article 25, those breeding animals classified as “three-haves” species—wildlife with “important ecological, scientific, or social value”—now need only to file a record with local authorities, rather than obtaining a previously required license.
This adjustment has been seen by some civil society organizations as a potential loophole that could undermine conservation efforts. They fear it may lead to an expansion of the wildlife breeding industry and make it easier for illegally hunted animals to be passed off as captive-bred.
However, experts argue that the revised law enhances conservation management by adopting a more nuanced, case-by-case approach. According to Yue Zhongming of the Legislative Affairs Commission of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, the law, originally enacted in 1988 and amended several times since, has played a crucial role in protecting wild animals and their habitats, rescuing endangered species, preserving biodiversity, and promoting ecological conservation in China.
“Strengthening the management of wild animals is not as simple as banning artificial breeding,” said Ran Jingcheng, head of the wildlife and forest plant management station in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. “Artificial breeding has significance in protecting endangered species and adjusting rural industrial structures. It’s important to clearly define wild animals and those bred in captivity to ensure rational use.”
From a legal perspective, Professor Jin Keke of East China University of Political Science and Law believes that completely banning the trade of wild animals is the safest approach for public health and safety.
Meanwhile, Professor Yang Zhaoxia of Beijing Forestry University emphasizes the need for a comprehensive protection strategy. “We must combine key protection with universal protection and include all wild animals with conservation value under legal protection,” she said. “It’s also necessary to protect species outside the current lists by formulating regulations and restricting large-scale use.”
The revisions to China’s Wildlife Protection Law reflect the government’s efforts to balance conservation with sustainable development. As the debate continues, stakeholders are calling for clear definitions and effective enforcement to ensure that wildlife protection is both scientifically sound and socially beneficial.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
