Global Wildlife Trade Rules in Focus as CITES CoP20 Kicks Off in Uzbekistan

The 20th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP20) kicked off in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, bringing together nearly 3,000 delegates from 185 countries to shape the future of global wildlife trade regulations.

Running through December 5, the forum is one of the largest and most significant environmental events of 2025, according to CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero. Alongside the main sessions, the event also includes the 79th and 80th Standing Committee meetings, adding even more weight to the agenda, The Caspian Post informs via Uzbek media.

This year’s conference is packed with 114 agenda items, almost 150 draft regulatory documents, and 51 proposals to update protected species lists. Discussions will center on improving enforcement mechanisms, safeguarding rare fauna and flora, and tightening global oversight on the use of natural resources.

Higuero highlighted that Samarkand is becoming the world’s hub for responsible trade dialogue, praising Uzbekistan’s “green” development efforts as a model for integrating environmental protection into national planning. Beyond plenary sessions, delegates will have access to over 110 side events, including expert seminars and exhibitions.

Established in 1975, the CITES Convention remains a key international tool for ensuring that trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Today, the treaty covers the EU and 184 countries, with Uzbekistan joining in 1997.