CHINA-LINKED WILDLIFE POACHING AND TRAFFICKING IN MEXICO
Date of Publication
1-1-2023 12:00 AM
Security Theme
Transnational Organized Crime
Keywords
China, wildlife trafficking, Mexico, Totoaba, Sinaloa Cartel, TOC
Description
Wildlife trafficking from Mexico to China is an issue that often goes under the international radar, despite its alarming growth. This problem compounds the existing threats to Mexican biodiversity from poaching activities geared toward other markets, including the United States. The complex terrain of Mexico, controlled by criminal groups, often turns these areas into no-go zones for government officials and environmental defenders. Consequently, our understanding of the extent of poaching, illegal logging, and wildlife trafficking in Mexico remains limited. It is likely that these activities, including the trade with China, are more extensive than commonly acknowledged.
CHINA-LINKED WILDLIFE POACHING AND TRAFFICKING IN MEXICO
Wildlife trafficking from Mexico to China is an issue that often goes under the international radar, despite its alarming growth. This problem compounds the existing threats to Mexican biodiversity from poaching activities geared toward other markets, including the United States. The complex terrain of Mexico, controlled by criminal groups, often turns these areas into no-go zones for government officials and environmental defenders. Consequently, our understanding of the extent of poaching, illegal logging, and wildlife trafficking in Mexico remains limited. It is likely that these activities, including the trade with China, are more extensive than commonly acknowledged.
