Hong Kong's lawmakers have voted overwhelmingly to ban the trade in ivory, in a move campaigners termed "a lifeline for elephants". Ivory sales will be phased out gradually in Hong Kong, stopping completely in 2021. Ivory from animal tusks - mostly those of elephants - has been traded in Hong Kong for more than 150 years. The trade in Hong Kong will cease in three stages. Hong Kong lawmaker Elizabeth Quat said the vote marked a great day for elephants, but that the changes must be enforced effectively.

Source: The Star January 31, 2018 15:11 UTC