The trafficking of wildlife is a global issue prevalent across all modes of transport and in every region of the world.

Wildlife crime represents one of the world's largest illicit markets. Poverty, armed conflict, corruption and lack of enforcement all exacerbate this issue, resulting in global implications for national security, the environment, people and communities.

"Wildlife trafficking is one of the most prominent forms of international organised crime globally"

Wildlife trafficking is one of the most prominent forms of international organised crime globally. Run by international networks, wildlife trafficking has been linked to other illicit activities, such as human and drug trafficking, all funding further societal harm.

Wildlife trafficking is driven by both legal and illegal demand for products derived from various species. Over 7,000 species are impacted by illegal wildlife trade, though ivory, rhino horn, live reptiles and live birds represent around

66% of trafficked wildlife products

.

Wildlife traffickers exploit the increasing connectivity of the global transport network, threatening human health and security, creating risk throughout industry supply chains and pushing animal species into extinction.