CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) regulates trade in endangered species. At Catawiki, we take these regulations seriously to protect wildlife and ensure all submitted objects comply with current laws.
When CITES applies
CITES applies globally and is implemented in the EU through specific regulations. These laws apply to many species and all their parts or derivatives. The level of protection depends on the species' conservation status.
EU legislation includes:
- CITES Appendices – global species lists (I, II, III)
- EU Annexes – EU translations of the Appendices (Annexes A, B, C)
Note: National laws may differ, especially outside the EU (e.g. UK, Norway, Switzerland). Always check your local legislation.
What you need to submit
Appendix I / Annex A
These species are most protected and usually require:
- EU Certificate (must show Paragraph 19(b): 'Commercial Use')
- Image of the certificate, including:
- Paragraph 1 (owner details)
- Paragraph 19(b)
- If you’re not the owner listed, include written authorisation from them
Appendix II / Annex B and Appendix III / Annex C
These species require:
- Proof of legal origin
- Export or re-export permit from the country of origin (if applicable)
Special regulations
Requirements for antiques
For CITES purposes:
- Pre-1947 items may qualify as antiques
- Pre-1900 ivory requires an EU Certificate and Appraisal Report
Requirements for ivory
We do not allow any post-1900 elephant ivory. Pre-1900 ivory is allowed with the right documentation:
- EU Certificate ('Commercial Use')
- Appraisal Report confirming:
- Physical inspection (not remote)
- Full description, size and photos
- Confirmation of pre-1900 origin
- Appraiser’s independence
- Contact details and signature
EU Birds Directive
The Birds Directive is a European Directive adopted as a response to increasing concern about the declines in Europe's wild bird populations resulting from pollution, loss of habitats as well as unsustainable use.
Under the EU Birds Directive, all bird species naturally occurring in the territory of the EU are protected. This means they must not be deliberately killed, caught or disturbed.
Bird species that are naturally occurring in the wild state in the European Territory are only suitable for the auction if:
- It can be proven that they are born and bred in captivity. For example, a closed foot ring to indicate that they are not taken from the wild.
- Species were derived from hunting, wildlife management and damage control. Only if this can be proven: e.g. a hunting license or exemption issued for that specific species.
Most common objects and species
a) Ivory
- Elephant: Pre-1900 only with full documentation
- Mammoth: Not CITES but proof may be required
- Hippopotamus: Appendix II; proof of legal origin needed
- Walrus: Appendix III; no certificate needed within EU
- Rhinoceros: Banned entirely
b) Mammals
- Grizzly, brown, cheetah, leopard, jaguar, tiger: Appendix I; EU Certificate needed
- Polar, black bear, lion, puma: Appendix II; no certificate needed within EU
c) Reptiles
- Crocodile: Appendix II; check species-specific rules
- Snake: Often non-CITES; check species
- Tortoise, turtle: Many require certificates
d) Birds
- Birds of prey, owls: Appendix II or I; certificates usually required
- Macaw, cockatoo: Appendix I; EU Certificate required
e) Sea life
- Clams, coral, shark, sawfish: Mostly Appendix II; some require certificates
- Turtles: Appendix I; certificates required
- Seals: EU-wide ban (with some exceptions)
f) Insects
- Most are non-CITES
- Birdwing butterflies: Appendix II; import certificates needed
g) Wood
Some rare wood types are protected. Always check current listings.
Learn more
The CITES rules and regulations are subject to regular change and update. It’s important to keep up-to-date with such changes. Always verify requirements before listing your object.