Over 6,000 african primates traded internationally as new report reveals endangered chimpanzees and gorillas among most targeted species

A comprehensive new report has exposed the staggering scale of African primate trafficking, revealing that more than 6,000 primates were traded internationally across 50 countries between 2000 and 2023. The analysis, conducted by the U.S.-based Pan African Sanctuary Alliance (PASA), found that endangered chimpanzees and critically endangered western gorillas ranked among the ten most-traded species globally.

Drawing from CITES trade databases, wildlife seizure records, and media reports, this groundbreaking study represents the first comprehensive attempt to map the global trade in African primates. The research reveals a complex web of both legal and illegal commerce, with primates being traded as hunting trophies, for scientific research, zoo exhibitions, and the exotic pet trade. Chacma baboons emerged as the most legally traded species, primarily sought after as hunting trophies.

The illegal trade is driven by multiple factors across Africa, where primates are hunted for bushmeat and body parts used in traditional rituals and charms. Young primates are particularly vulnerable, often captured alive for the international exotic pet market. Lead author and wildlife crime specialist Monique Sosnowski emphasized that the report serves as both a diagnostic tool and urgent call to action.

While the study captures international trafficking patterns, researchers note it doesn’t account for substantial domestic trade within African countries, suggesting the true scale of primate exploitation may be even larger. This data highlights the critical need for enhanced protection measures and international cooperation to safeguard Africa’s remaining primate populations from exploitation.