If you’ve ever purchased, exported, or traveled with exotic leather products—like a crocodile leather wallet or python skin handbag—you’ve likely come across the term CITES certificate. Whether you’re a customer of Bangkok Bootery or planning to carry one of our premium leather goods across borders, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and confident.

What Is a CITES Certificate?

The CITES certificate is an official permit that allows the legal import, export, or re-export of exotic leather products made from protected animal species. CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, a global agreement between 184 countries that regulates trade in species at risk of extinction.

If your Bangkok Bootery product is made from crocodile or python, there’s a good chance it falls under CITES-listed species.

If your Bangkok Bootery product is made from Sea Snake, Stingray, Ostrich and Calf, it doesn’t require CITES.

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When Do You Need a CITES Certificate?

You need a CITES certificate if you’re:

• Importing or exporting exotic leather products (even for personal use)
• Shipping items internationally to or from countries that enforce CITES
• Traveling with exotic leather goods to certain destinations
• Purchasing custom leather bags or shoes made with exotic skins for delivery overseas

Even if the item is for personal use and not resale, customs authorities may still require proper documentation—especially in countries with stricter enforcement

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Countries That Require CITES Documentation

Nearly all countries that are part of the CITES agreement require certification for exotic leather products. This includes:

• • United States
  • All European Union countries
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • Japan
  • China
  • Thailand
  • South Korea
  • South Africa
  • UAE

If you’re unsure whether your destination requires documentation, consult the official website of CITES.org or contact your national CITES Management Authority.

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What If My Flight Has a Layover?

A common question is whether you need a CITES transit permit if your item is passing through a third country. Here’s what you need to know:

• • If your product stays within the plane and doesn’t clear customs, a transit permit usually isn’t required.
  • If the item is unloaded, transferred, or stored in a warehouse (even briefly), you may need an additional transit certificate for that country.

Always check with the customs authorities of your layover country before traveling.

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How to Apply for a CITES Certificate

Here’s how to obtain your export or import permit:

1. 1. Confirm the species: Identify whether the leather used in your product is listed in the CITES Appendices.
   2. Contact your country’s CITES authority: For example, in Thailand, it’s the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
   3. Submit the application: You’ll typically need details of the product, invoice, proof of legal origin, and recipient information.
   4. Wait for processing: Allow several days to weeks depending on your location.
   5. Receive your document: The original CITES certificate must accompany the product during shipping or travel.

If you’re purchasing a product from Bangkok Bootery and require documentation, our team will assist you in coordinating with the correct authorities.

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Required Information for CITES Export Permit with Bangkok Bootery

1. 1. Permit Number – Document number and purpose (Export)
   2. Date of Issue – Valid until the expiration date stated. Must be applied before expiry
   3. Consignee – Customer’s full name, address, and passport number
   4. Permittee – Exporter’s name, address, and contact details (e.g., Bangkok Bootery)
   5. Purpose – Tourist export
   6. Management Authority – Department of Fisheries, Thailand (with contact info)
   7. Common Name – e.g., Freshwater Crocodile
   8. Scientific Name – e.g., Crocodylus siamensis
   9. Description – Type of product, e.g., shoes, belt
   10. Source – Country of origin of the skin (e.g., Thailand)
   11. Quantity – Number of items (e.g., 1 pair, 1 piece)
   12. Issued By – Signed and stamped by authorized officer
   13. Export Endorsement – Species, product type, and quantity confirmed
   14. Bill of Lading – Signed and stamped by authority at time of export

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What Products from Bangkok Bootery Require CITES?

We use ethically sourced exotic leathers for a number of products, including:

• • Crocodile leather
  • Python leather
  • Exotic leathers
  • Custom exotic accessories

If your item contains any CITES-regulated material, we’ll help ensure you have the right paperwork—no surprises at customs.

For purchases over 5,000 THB, we provide the CITES certificate free of charge. For orders below this amount, a processing fee of 500 THB will apply for the issuance of the certificate.

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Why the CITES Certificate Matters

• • Protects endangered species through traceable, sustainable trade
  • Legally secures your purchase for international travel or resale
  • Ensures smooth customs processing at international airports and borders
  • Reinforces ethical exotic leather trade and transparency

Buying with Bangkok Bootery means buying with integrity.

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Need Help With a CITES Certificate?

If you’re placing a custom order, planning to export a gift, or want to travel internationally with one of our exotic leather items, we’re here to help.

Visit one of our stores in Bangkok and Phuket.

 Chat with us on WhatsApp or LINE for CITES assistance

 Visit website : https://www.npws.ie/licencesandconsents/import-export-trade/cites?

Contact usat [email protected] and [email protected]