Notification to the Parties

CONCERNING:

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

Verification of export permits

1. The Secretariat is in possession of evidence that indicates significant problems relating to the issuance of permits by the CITES Management Authority of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the management of its export quotas.

2. Consequently, the Secretariat recommends that, until further notice, no CITES permit or certificate issued in the Democratic Republic of the Congo be accepted until the Secretariat has confirmed its authenticity and validity.

3. The Secretariat requests that it be sent copies of all permits and certificates issued in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2003 that have been presented to an importing country, together with details of any shipments that have been cleared for import this year.

4. The Secretariat is in regular communication with the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is providing technical assistance to help resolve the current difficulties.