As from the 24th of April 2023, the European Commission has adopted a guidance document on the export, re-export and intra-EU trade of captive-born and bred live tigers and their parts and derivatives. The main reason for this document is to have harmonisation in approach throughout all EU Member States..

This guidance document states how EU Member States should, not grant an export or re-export or intra-EU certificate except if the permit or certificate will be used for purposes not detrimental to the conservation as per below:

  1. captive specimens intended for licensed zoos;
  2. Exchange between licensed zoos as part of breeding and conservation programmes;
  3. Movements related to rescues by officially registered and monitored sanctuaries as long as these specimens cannot reproduce and are adequately kept;
  4. Captive specimens intended for scientific, medical and biomedical research subject that this is the only suitable species;
  5. Genuine exchange of cultural or artistic goods between institutions (museums);
  6. Law enforcement or judicial proceedings
  7. Artistic artifacts where its value ensures that it won’t be used for another purpose
  8. Heirlooms moving as part of a family relocation or a bequest
  9. Bona fide research projects.

A copy of the Guidance can be accessed here