Black rhinoceros, whose horns are used in traditional Chinese medicines, are among the animals most threatened by illegal trade
Image Professionals GmbH / Alamy
There has been a significant increase in the number of patents filed for products derived from endangered wildlife species such as bears, rhinos, and pangolins. It is evident that commercial interest in these products is on the rise.
Despite international agreements that restrict the trade in endangered species, the global trade in illegal wildlife products continues to be the fourth largest criminal activity in the world. Rhinos, bears, and pangolins are particularly vulnerable to illegal trade, with rhino horns and bear bile being highly sought after.
