Scientific victory: CITES allows trade in long-tailed macaques

Scientific victory: CITES allows trade in long-tailed macaques

The Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of International Trade (CITES) decision not to suspend trade in Cambodia's long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) is being celebrated by the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR). This measure emphasizes the importance of a science-based review process that provides time to refute misinformation spread by extremist groups. At a meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, several countries, including Japan and the United States, supported examining newly submitted information before adopting controversial trade restrictions. This decision highlights the need for a transparent and evidence-based evaluation, such as nabr.org reported.

Research on the brink

According to the NABR, long-tailed macaques are critical to life-saving biomedical research. NABR President Matthew R. Bailey expressed optimism, emphasizing that thoughtful, evidence-based considerations are essential to decisions of this magnitude. The ability to use these animals for research directly impacts the development of new drugs and the research community worldwide. Sources report that without the transport of laboratory animals, research practices would be significantly limited, which could lead to delays in important medical advances.

NABR will continue to advocate for science-based policies and seek open collaboration with global partners to ensure the integrity of research and promote responsibility in the treatment of laboratory animals. A possible suspension of trade was viewed as unfounded and hailed as a victory for scientific integrity and public health. International wildlife trade activities and decisions are intended to support medical progress, such as ots.at was explained.