HS Code:
The 'Birds of Prey' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code generally falls under broader classifications related to live animals, specifically under HS Code 0106 (Other live animals), which includes birds of prey such as eagles, hawks, and falcons. This category encompasses the global trade of these birds primarily for purposes such as falconry, conservation programs, zoos, and research. Due to their protected status under various international agreements like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), trade in birds of prey is heavily regulated and often restricted to specific permits and purposes. The trade volume is relatively low compared to other animal categories due to ethical, legal, and environmental concerns.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and CITES Trade Database
$1.8 million USD
36% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$0.8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$0.6 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$0.3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem (varies by country and specific species)
Highest Rate
Up to 20% in certain protective markets (e.g., India)
Lowest Rate
0-2% in free trade zones or under conservation agreements
Growing demand in Middle Eastern countries for falconry
Increased trade volume in countries like UAE and Saudi Arabia due to cultural significance of falconry, driving up prices and breeding programs.
2020-2022
Stricter regulations on wildlife trade
Reduced illegal trade but also limited legal trade due to enhanced CITES enforcement and national laws, impacting overall market size.
2019-2022
Rise in conservation and rehabilitation programs
Increased cross-border movement of birds for reintroduction and breeding programs, often under zero-tariff agreements.
2021-2022
The annual UAE Falconry Festival in 2022 highlighted the cultural importance of birds of prey, leading to a surge in demand for imported falcons and related trade agreements.
December 2022
Strengthened UAE's position as the leading importer, with a 10% increase in trade volume year-over-year.
Several species of birds of prey were moved to higher protection categories under CITES Appendix I and II, imposing stricter trade controls and documentation requirements.
November 2022
Reduced legal trade volume by approximately 5% globally due to increased compliance costs and delays.
A bilateral agreement between the US and Canada was signed to facilitate the transfer of birds of prey for conservation and research purposes with waived tariffs.
March 2023
Increased non-commercial trade between the two countries, supporting population recovery programs for species like the Peregrine Falcon.