Primate Trade (Africa)

Abstract

Wildlife trade refers to the exchange or sale of any nondomesticated animal or plant material. This can include live specimens, whole deceased specimens, or parts and products of specimens used for a vast array of purposes. Wildlife trading can range from simple transactions, such as between a single hunter and a single buyer in a localized area, to a complex international system. Primate trade in Africa has occurred for centuries, and is often important for community livelihood, culture, or traditional medicine. However, rising international demand for both dead and live primates has led to a rate of trade that is overwhelmingly unsustainable. Organizations such as CITES and TRAFFIC are working to mitigate illegal trade. Unfortunately, these efforts have struggled against corruption, political instability, and a lack of reliable data. Understanding all levels of trade, and how it impacts species survival, human needs, ecosystems, and economies is vital. It is only with international cooperation and well‐informed individuals that trade can be brought to a sustainable level.