CITES Review Highlights Cambodia's Progress in Long-Tailed Macaque Breeding Practices

On November 20, 2025, the CITES Permanent Committee released a critical assessment regarding the breeding practices of long-tailed macaques in Cambodia. This review is an essential part of the global initiative to monitor and regulate the trade of endangered species, ensuring that such practices adhere to established international laws and standards.

The report acknowledges Cambodia's comprehensive data submission and its reliance on scientific information. This thorough approach significantly contributes to the ongoing dialogues about animal welfare and trade practices. The findings indicate that Cambodia has successfully established well-coordinated customs and inspection procedures via a national single-window system, thus ensuring transparency in their operations.

Cambodia's efforts in reforming its legislative framework and increasing traceability of its breeding practices have been duly noted. Furthermore, the report praises the country for its openness and consistency throughout the review process, demonstrating a commitment to better practices that align with CITES requirements.

Long-tailed macaques hold immense importance in the realm of biomedical research due to their biological similarities to humans. They are the most studied non-human primate species for drug safety evaluations and represent a vital resource in fields like immunology, regenerative medicine, cancer research, vaccine development, and pharmacology. The breeding and management of these primates are crucial for creating new medical treatments and advancing scientific knowledge.

Historically, Cambodia served as a major supplier of animal models for research in the United States. However, the country faced a significant decline in exports due to allegations of illegal activities from some interest groups in the U.S. This decrease in the availability of important research models threatens the progression of medical research and hinders the development of new therapies for various conditions.

Matthew R. Bailey, President of the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR), expressed his appreciation for the CITES report, which confirms Cambodia's compliance with international laws and requirements. “This report acknowledges Cambodia’s adherence to legal frameworks and indicates that animal models necessary for research in the United States can indeed be sourced from this nation,” he stated.

Bailey also emphasized the importance of collaboration between Cambodia and U.S. stakeholders in addressing concerns and ensuring a sustainable animal-model supply for biomedical research. This collaboration is vital not only for American researchers but also for the global medical community that relies on such models to achieve breakthroughs.

The NABR, founded in 1979, plays a crucial role in promoting sound public policies for the humane use of animals in research, education, and biomedical testing. Its membership includes over 340 entities, such as medical schools, veterinary colleges, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies that advocate for responsible and ethical animal research practices.

In a closing note, Bailey expressed gratitude towards the Cambodian government for its transparency and collaboration throughout the assessment process. He also reaffirmed NABR's commitment to working in tandem with international partners to ensure the ethical treatment and use of animals in research, thereby contributing to public health advancements and the continued search for effective medical solutions.