Callof thewild

As China gets ready for a new Wildlife Protection Law experts question its efficacy

China’s outdated Law on the Protection of Wildlife is getting a much needed upgrade almost 30 years after it was first enacted in 1988.

After three years of preparation, a revised law was finally unveiled on July 2 by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, China’s top legislature. But the law, which will take effect on January 1, 2017, has garnered much attention in China and abroad. new law imposes restrictions on construction projects - such as airports, railways, roads and water works - in nature reserves and around known migration paths of wild animals.

Although the term “animal welfare” does not appear in the revised text, other provisions clearly forbid abusing, harassing and hurting animals, which is a significant progress. Chang pointed out that through its new provisions, the revised law essentially provides for a healthy environment and adequate living conditions for wild animals.

Meanwhile, the new law tightens regulations on illegal trade of endangered wild animals and consumption of related products. The violators will face tougher punishment, including fines of up to 10 times the value of the illegally traded animals or products. Those providing platforms for advertisement or illegal trading of wild animals or their products will also face harsher punishment.

According to the new law, wildlife belongs to the state, and any person suffering personal injury or property damage caused by wild animals will be eligible for compensation.