There are parallels between insect trafficking and wildlife trafficking more generally. Alongside the demand in species, the smuggling techniques used in insect trafficking reflect methods seen in other wildlife trafficking markets. This can potentially allow traffickers to launder protected species alongside legal ones, a technique that parallels other wildlife trafficking markets. Informing national policies, the international trade in fauna and flora is regulated by Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which has 185 signatory countries. Overall, these high profile cases and continued media discussion can help to recognise insects as victims of wildlife trafficking.

Source: Standard Digital April 08, 2026 10:14 UTC