South Africa Reaffirms Opposition to Ivory and Rhino Horn Trade

Strategic Insights -

South Africa has confirmed its commitment to the international ban on the commercial trade of ivory and rhino horn, following media reports suggesting a divergence from the international consensus. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has stated that its policy is guided by science, ethics, and global cooperation, not commercial interest. Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, emphasized that South Africa's duty is to protect its wildlife, not to profit from their destruction. The department will continue to work closely with regional and international partners to combat poaching, dismantle trafficking networks, and strengthen wildlife law enforcement.

Key Takeaways:

  • South Africa is fully committed to the international ban on the commercial trade of ivory and rhino horn.
  • The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) prioritizes science, ethics, and global cooperation over commercial interest in guiding its policy.
  • Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has emphasized that South Africa's duty is to protect its wildlife, not to profit from their destruction.
  • South Africa's approach to elephant and rhino conservation is grounded in sustainability, protection of biodiversity, and support for communities that live alongside wildlife.
  • The DFFE will continue to work closely with regional and international partners to combat poaching, dismantle trafficking networks, and strengthen wildlife law enforcement.
  • South Africa has a proud record of responsible conservation management under CITES.
  • The DFFE's priority is to secure a future where elephants, rhinos, and people can thrive together.

Statistics:

  • The 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP20) will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from November 24 -- December 5, 2025.
  • CITES CoP20 marks the upcoming meeting date.

Sources:

  • SAnews.gov.za, "Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment reaffirms opposition to ivory and rhino horn trade" (October 31, 2025).
  • The original report by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is not cited in the original source.