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. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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
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
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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.
How to Apply for a CITES Certificate
Here’s how to obtain your export or import permit:-
- Confirm the species: Identify whether the leather used in your product is listed in the CITES Appendices.
- Contact your country's CITES authority: For example, in Thailand, it’s the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
- Submit the application: You’ll typically need details of the product, invoice, proof of legal origin, and recipient information.
- Wait for processing: Allow several days to weeks depending on your location.
- Receive your document: The original CITES certificate must accompany the product during shipping or travel.
Required Information for CITES Export Permit with Bangkok Bootery
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- Permit Number – Document number and purpose (Export)
- Date of Issue – Valid until the expiration date stated. Must be applied before expiry
- Consignee – Customer’s full name, address, and passport number
- Permittee – Exporter’s name, address, and contact details (e.g., Bangkok Bootery)
- Purpose – Tourist export
- Management Authority – Department of Fisheries, Thailand (with contact info)
- Common Name – e.g., Freshwater Crocodile
- Scientific Name – e.g., Crocodylus siamensis
- Description – Type of product, e.g., shoes, belt
- Source – Country of origin of the skin (e.g., Thailand)
- Quantity – Number of items (e.g., 1 pair, 1 piece)
- Issued By – Signed and stamped by authorized officer
- Export Endorsement – Species, product type, and quantity confirmed
- Bill of Lading – Signed and stamped by authority at time of export
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
Why the CITES Certificate Matters
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- 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
