Study of the Trade of CITES-Listed Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Products in Thailand

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: Many species of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are threatened by international trade, leading to extinction. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) includes several MAP species in CITES Appendices. As a CITES party, Thailand has to cooperate in controlling the trade of listed plants. This study aims to investigate the trade of CITES-listed MAPs and their products in Thailand, focusing on: 1) the current situation of MAP imports and exports, 2) challenges in enforcing domestic laws as per CITES provisions, and 3) recommendations to improve the efficiency of trade control for MAPs and their products.

Methodology: This is a mixed method study, including quantitative research to analyse trade statistics of MAPs from the CITES website and relevant data from the Department of Agriculture, and qualitative research involves literature review and surveys of herbal trade on online platforms and field study at herbal shops. Data were collected using record forms and semi-structured in-depth interviews with official staffs and entrepreneurs.

Results: The trade survey of CITES-listed MAPs found 31 species sold as herbal medicines, extracts, finished herbal products, and cosmetics. Online trade showed more varieties of species and products compared with those sold in domestic stores. The species frequently found are Panax ginseng, P. quinquefolius, Saussurea costus, Aquilaria spp., and Dendrobium spp. It was also found that scientific names of some traded herbal materials were misidentified. According to trade statistics from the CITES website between 2020 and 2022, Thailand exported the highest volume of listed MAPs (49% of the global export volume), with Dendrobium hybrids as the most exported species. During this period, reports indicated 158 export instances covering 35 species of MAPs from CITES parties to Thailand, while Thailand reported only 43 import instances of 21 species. Interviews with stakeholders revealed a lack of understanding regarding the species and regulations governing the trade of CITES-listed MAPs.

Discussion: This study reveals that the control of trade in CITES-listed MAPs and their products in Thailand is inefficient. This is not due to flaws in domestic laws, but partly due to the lack of knowledge and understanding among stakeholders regarding the trade in CITES-listed MAPs and their products.

Conclusion and recommendations: It is essential to enhance the effectiveness of trade control for MAPs and their products by establishing a comprehensive database of MAPs listed in CITES and integrating information among relevant agencies. Furthermore, training and provision of information via appropriate channels should be offered to educate officials, traders, and manufacturers involved in lawful practices regarding the trade of CITES-listed MAPs.