Bahrain Introduces New Permit for International Trade for Endangered Species
Manama Tightens Controls on Cross-Border Trade in Endangered Wildlife and Plants
The Kingdom of Bahrain has enacted new regulations requiring permits and certificates for all international trade in endangered wild animals and plants, authorities announced on January 20, 2026.
The rules, issued under Decision No. 12 of 2025, took effect immediately, aiming to strengthen environmental protection and ensure compliance with international conservation standards.
Under the updated framework, cross-border trade in specimen samples listed in the annexes of the new rules is prohibited unless authorised by the Supreme Council for Environment. Traders and individuals must now obtain official permits or certificates before exporting, importing or re-exporting protected species.
Applications for the new permits must be submitted online through the council’s website, accompanied by supporting documentation that demonstrates lawful possession of the specimen, such as identity cards for individuals or commercial registration for businesses. Once applications meet all requirements and the prescribed fee is paid, the council is required to issue permits within 30 days, with a possible extension of up to another 30 days if needed.
The regulations also introduce a certificate of ownership for live specimens, designed to facilitate lawful repeated movement across borders and enhance traceability. Those handling specimens for public display, commercial breeding or production must register their holdings and maintain detailed records on births, deaths and identifying marks.
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Environmental and wildlife conservation advocates have welcomed the move as a critical step toward stopping illegal trade and protecting Bahrain’s biodiversity in line with global efforts to safeguard endangered species. Officials have emphasised that the new permitting system enhances transparency, compliance and monitoring of sensitive biological materials, aligning with Bahrain’s broader environmental protection strategy.
The Supreme Council for Environment will continue to oversee the implementation of the new measures and provide guidance to businesses and individuals on how to meet the updated requirements.