Countering the Illicit Wildlife Pet Trade in South Asia

Donor: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)
In collaboration with: Monitor Conservation Research Society (MCRS)

Project purpose: Develop a better understanding of the current illicit trade in wildlife for the pet market in Sri Lanka, including both native and non-native species and the identification of emerging trends and drivers.

EFL carried out research on the illicit wildlife pet trade in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Monitor Conservation Research Society (MCRS), through the Countering the Illicit Wildlife Pet Trade in South Asia initiative. This project focused on identifying both native and non-native species being traded, mapping emerging trends, drivers, and laundering points within legal markets. Using a standardized methodology adapted to Sri Lanka, EFL and MCRS conducted a comprehensive baseline study covering reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and invertebrates- identifying trafficking routes, market patterns, and enforcement gaps. Through stakeholder consultations and coordination with enforcement agencies, EFL strengthened national capacity to monitor and regulate the exotic pet trade. The findings informed practical recommendations for improving legal frameworks, enforcement measures, and investigative strategies.

• Identified native and non-native species, including reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and non-aquatic invertebrates, being illegally traded in Sri Lanka, providing critical data for enforcement and policy response.
• Identified emerging trends and key threats to native and non-native species, enabling early detection of trafficking patterns and supporting proactive conservation measures.
• Identified key points in supply chains where illegally sourced animals are traded through legal channels, informing targeted interventions and improving traceability within trade networks.

• 25 law enforcement officers received knowledge and technical skills enhancement to effectively monitor the exotic pet trade, resulting in improved detection and reporting.
• 28 attorneys attached to the Attorney General’s Department received capacitation on how legal markets are used to facilitate illegal trafficking.
• Provided a forum for both LEO’s and attorneys attached the AG’s Department to discuss gaps in monitoring systems, regulatory frameworks, and capacity-building needs, further strengthening cross-agency collaboration and learning.