CITES and the Plant & Flower Industry
CITES and the Plant & Flower Industry: What to Watch Out for When Importing or Exporting
The global trade in plants and flowers is booming, but some species are under threat from overharvesting. That’s why there is international regulation: CITES. For exporters and importers – especially those trading with the United Kingdom (UK) – it’s vital to know when CITES applies and what this means for your logistics, permits and customs procedures.
What is CITES?
CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. It protects endangered animal and plant species from over-exploitation through international trade. CITES operates via a system of appendices:
- Appendix I: critically endangered – trade mostly prohibited.
- Appendix II: trade allowed under strict permit conditions.
- Appendix III: protection initiated by individual countries.
Over 38,000 species are now listed, including many ornamental plants, trees and cacti used in flower trade or wholesale.
When does CITES apply?
For companies exporting plants or flowers to or from the UK, CITES applies when:
- The species is listed (including seeds, cuttings, timber, oils or extracts);
- The plants are wild-collected or fall under controlled cultivation;
- The shipment crosses international borders – e.g. EU to UK.
Examples of CITES plants imported into the UK
Some commonly traded CITES species requiring extra care when importing into the UK:
• Orchids (Orchidaceae): Dendrobium, Paphiopedilum, Cattleya
• Cacti (Cactaceae): Echinopsis, Cereus, Mammillaria
• Aloe vera and Aloe ferox
• Cycas revoluta (sago palm)
• Guaiacum spp. (hardwood, oils)
• Tillandsia xerographica (air plant)
• Dalbergia spp. (rosewood)
• Nolina spp.
Key points for exporters and importers
1. Check the CITES status – via Species+ or national authorities.
2. Obtain the right permits – via RVO (NL) and APHA (UK).
3. Cultivated vs. wild species – documentation is essential.
4. Use designated customs entry points – e.g. Heathrow or Felixstowe.
5. Trade responsibly – avoid penalties and support sustainability.
Conclusion
Planning to export plants or flowers to the UK? Or import tropical ornamentals, orchids or cacti? Then understanding CITES is essential. Stay informed, work with customs experts and ensure all permits are in place.
Bongers Customs Services Customs Services B.V. specialises in providing CITES shipments to the UK and other countries.