APEC seeks better tools to combat illicit wildlife trade

The regional economic forum is meeting in the Philippines to discuss joint measures to increase capabilities for the enforcement of wildlife trafficking laws.    Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation customs, law enforcement and anti-corruption authorities are meeting in the Philippines to discuss ways to slow down trade in illicit wildlife and wildlife products, which is pushing many species towards extinction.
   Illegal wildlife trafficking is a $23 billion industry and the Asia-Pacific region is targeted by poachers for rhino horns, leopard and tiger pelts, exotic birds and orangutans delivered as pets or animal park attractions.
   Earlier this week the Thai government destroyed 2.2 tons of confiscated elephant ivory.
   APEC officials say they want to strengthen customs and border security practices through better training of inspectors in identifying illegal shipments, targeting suspicious persons, searches and seizures, evidence handling and investigative techniques. Authorities are also working to improve risk analysis, recruitment of informants and information gathering from sources such as police, wildlife and park agencies, customs brokers, airlines, and hotel and ground transportation companies.
   “A big challenge for customs bureaus is preventing the entry of illegal wildlife and wildlife parts while ensuring checks do not stifle the legitimate flow of people and goods across borders,” Agaton Uvero, chairman of the APEC Subcommittee on Customs Procedures and deputy commissioner of Philippine Customs, said in a statement. “Joint efforts to empower agents with the right tools and knowhow has the potential to make a significant difference in their ability to screen and fight trafficking activity.”