Cooperation between China and ASEAN in Combating Wildlife Trade under the Framework of Regional Legal System

Abstract

Because of its greater biodiversity, ASEAN has long been a source and transit hub for transnational wildlife trafficking. Although several international and domestic wildlife enforcement mechanisms have been established, the scope and effectiveness of international legal cooperation and policy coordination between China and ASEAN remain limited. Governments have been hampered in their efforts to combat wildlife trafficking by the difficulties of investigation and prosecution in overseas jurisdictions and the maintenance of illicit supply chains by organized crime groups. This paper reviews the main trends of legal and illegal wildlife trade between China and ASEAN, explores the existing legal and policy frameworks of ASEAN countries and China, and discusses the effectiveness of cooperation between China and ASEAN countries by referring to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). Finally, put forward the legal cooperation between China and ASEAN countries in combating transnational illegal wildlife trafficking.