China Reverses Ban on Rhino and Tiger Parts in Medicine, Sparking Conservation Concerns
Background
In a move that has stunned conservationists, China has reversed a decades-long ban on the use of rhino horns and tiger bones in traditional medicine. The ban, which was implemented in 1993, was seen as a major victory for wildlife protection efforts. However, China’s recent policy reversal has raised fears that it could lead to a resurgence of poaching and further endanger these already threatened species.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Demand for Rhino and Tiger Parts
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), rhino horns and tiger bones are believed to possess medicinal properties that can treat a variety of ailments, including cancer, rheumatism, and gout. This belief has driven a high demand for these animal parts, leading to widespread poaching and illegal trade.
China’s Policy Reversal
On Monday, China’s State Council announced that the ban on rhino horns and tiger bones would be lifted, but only for certified hospitals and doctors. The parts must also be sourced from animals raised in captivity, excluding zoo animals.
Conservationists’ Concerns
Conservationists are deeply concerned about the potential impacts of China’s policy reversal. They argue that a legal trade in rhino and tiger parts will provide cover for poached products, making it difficult to distinguish between legally and illegally obtained parts. This could lead to increased poaching and further imperil these endangered species.
Status of Rhino and Tiger Populations
At the beginning of the 20th century, there were an estimated 500,000 rhinos roaming Africa and Asia. Today, their numbers have plummeted to around 30,000 due to poaching and habitat loss. Tiger populations have also suffered from aggressive hunting, but their numbers have started to recover in recent years. However, there are still less than 4,000 tigers believed to exist in the wild today.
Challenges in Distinguishing Captive and Wild Parts
One of the major challenges in implementing China’s new policy is the difficulty in distinguishing between rhino horns and tiger bones sourced from captive animals and those obtained from wild animals. Without DNA testing, it is impossible to determine the origin of the parts. This creates a loophole that could be exploited by poachers and illegal traders.
Role of Tiger Farms and Rhino Ranches
Some conservationists believe that the pressure for China’s policy reversal came from proprietors of tiger farms and rhino ranches. In 2013, there were an estimated “several thousand tigers” held in captivity in China. Captive tigers are expensive to feed and care for, and the owners of these farms may have lobbied the government to legalize the trade in tiger products.
Implications for Traditional Medicine and Wildlife Conservation
China’s decision to reverse the ban on rhino horns and tiger bones has sent shockwaves through the traditional medicine community. The World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies, which determines what materials can be used in TCM products, had removed tiger bone and rhino horn from its list of approved ingredients following the 1993 ban.
Conservationists fear that China’s new policy will stimulate demand for rhino horns and tiger bones, potentially leading to an increase in poaching and a decline in these endangered species’ populations. They are calling on the Chinese government to reconsider its decision and implement stricter measures to protect rhinos and tigers.
