China unveiled new rules on Monday that would allow the use of rhino horn and tiger parts for some medical and cultural purposes, watering down a decadesold ban in a move conservation group WWF said could have "devastating consequences.
China's State Council issued a notice replacing its 1993 ban on the trade of tiger bones and rhino horn. The new rules ban the sale, use, import and export of such products, but allow exceptions under "special circumstances," such as medical and scientific research, educational use, and as part of "cultural exchanges."
Horns of rhinos or bones of tigers that were bred in captivity could be used "for medical research or clinical treatment of critical illnesses," it said.
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