Madagascar can resume crocodile skin exports

The 2008 ban resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of Malagasy crocodiles.

Crocodile farmers in Madagascar are able to sell skins into overseas markets once again after a 2008 ban on exports was lifted by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Under the new legislation, Madagascar will not export wild green hides, as these are reserved for local companies. As the farming of eggs only started in 2014, quotas have been placed for the first few years. The annual export quota for skins and other crocodile products is based on inventory and farming potential. Only certified shops can currently retail such products, with each tourist buyer limited to a maximum of four items.

According to the Ministry of Environment, Ecology and Forests, some local producers have attempted to form associations and create collective farms but they were discouraged by the considerable investment necessary for such an enterprise. As a result, they continue to hunt wild crocodiles.

Once the 2008 ban was in place, the number of crocodiles quickly increased. It is now estimated that there are about 30 crocodiles in each kilometre of Madagascar’s rivers.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 3 of the October 2015 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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