Notification to the Parties

CONCERNING:

Implementation of Resolution Conf. 11.13
Universal labelling system for the identification of caviar – Russian Federation

1. In accordance with Resolution Conf. 11.13 (Universal labelling system for the identification of caviar), the CITES Sturgeon Management Authority of the Russian Federation has designed labels that will be used to authenticate caviar exports.

2. The Russian Federation labels are printed on adhesive paper and are non-reusable. They are suitable for use on primary and secondary containers. Any attempt to remove the label or open the container will result in damage to the label. One company is being used to prepare the labels and only does so on the instructions of the CITES Sturgeon Management Authority of the Russian Federation. Labels bearing the grade of caviar, Acipenseriformes species code, ISO code of the country of origin and year of harvest are pre-printed. On application for an export of caviar, the Management Authority (having satisfied itself regarding non-detriment and legal origin) instructs the printer to add the number of the producer (processing plant) and a consignment (lot identification) number. Each label also bears a holographic design to deter counterfeiting. The hologram displays, alternately, the words ‘CITES’ and ‘RUSSIA’ (in English and Russian).

3. Examples of the labels are attached. Management Authorities that require examples in colour should request these from the Secretariat.

4. The Russian Federation will begin to use the labels for the export of primary and secondary containers containing more than 250g of caviar starting with caviar harvested in the year 2001.