Notification to the Parties

CONCERNING:

ARGENTINA

Dolphin imports

1. The Management Authority of Argentina has asked the Secretariat to inform the Parties of the following facts.

2. Between 1995 and June 1999, Argentina temporarily suspended authorization of imports of cetaceans from the States comprising the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that were formerly part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. During this period, imports of cetaceans from these States CIS were allowed only exceptionally, on a case-by-case basis.

3. In November 1999 a shipment of five dolphins arrived in Argentina, from the Russian Federation, of which two were dead on arrival. Consequently Argentina decided to suspend, once again, authorization to import dolphins directly from or originating in the Russian Federation, as well as from the above-mentioned States comprising the CIS, until further notice. This suspension remains in effect.