The high number of live caracals imported from South Africa worldwide for commercial purposes (n = 681) is extremely worrisome, especially to countries like China (n = 152), Malaysia (n = 64), Thailand (n = 66), and Vietnam (n = 43).
The commercial import of wildlife generally means that animal traders, wholesalers or brokers are involved, who will resell the animals within the region for profit. The final destination of these animals is frequently unknown.
The resale of wild animals imported under CITES for commercial purposes can happen without CITES resale permits and for ANY reason, including to zoos, breeders, pet traders, and laboratories. These animals can even be killed at their final destination and their body parts sold for profit.