Notification to the Parties

CONCERNING:

Annotation to Cistanche deserticola

1. At its 11th meeting, the Conference of the Parties approved a proposal to include Cistanche deserticola in Appendix II with the annotation "designates whole and sliced roots and parts of roots, excluding manufactured parts or derivatives such as powders, pills, extracts, tonics, teas and confectionery".

2. Strictly speaking, the reference to roots is incorrect because Cistanche deserticola is a parasite and does not have roots.

3. The parts that are traded are dried or fresh undeveloped inflorescences, which are harvested when still subterranean, hence the reference to ‘roots’.

4. It is clear that the intention of the proponent was that only the trade in these inflorescences should be regulated and that all manufactured products should be exempted from CITES controls.

5. The current annotation should therefore be interpreted to refer to the above-mentioned inflorescences and not to ‘roots’.

6. The Secretariat will cooperate with China in preparing an amendment proposal for consideration at the 12th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to correct the current annotation.