An overview of international trade of Macaca fascicularis from Indonesia based on the CITES trade database

Abstract

Wildlife trade is one of the main constraints in biodiversity conservation. International wildlife trade is regulated by The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Approximately 34,000 plants and animals are grouped into three Appendices related to the degree of threats posed due to international trade. Annually, CITES provides global trends in wildlife trade through its official website. However, there are some limitations demonstrated by the CITES database, which may indicate unsustainable trade. Using the CITES trade database, we offer an overview of the international trade of crab-eating Macaca (Macaca fascicularis) from Indonesia. Results show that Indonesia had recorded 440 transactions of M. fascicularis in both live animals and non-live forms for 30 years (1990-2019). A total of 117,193 live M. fascicularis had been traded, with the United States being the primary importer. There were challenges in using the CITES trade database in analyzing M. fascicularis trade, including a mismatch between trade volume reported by the exporters and importers, undefined trade purposes, and unitless reports. We hope that our findings can help the community understand international M. fascicularis trade and guide future conservation efforts and policy changes.