A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Washington responded to recent accusations about pangolin trafficking, urging the United States to avoid undermining Beijing’s global standing with claims about smuggling. The official stressed that China firmly opposes any effort to cast the country in a negative light over pangolins and emphasized China’s ongoing commitment to protecting these animals from illegal trade.
The diplomat noted that China has met its responsibilities to safeguard pangolins and to prevent smuggling and illicit commerce involving them. He also affirmed that China will deepen cooperation with the international community and pursue practical, science‑based measures to protect endangered wildlife.
In related remarks, there were comments suggesting that the administration under President Joe Biden had linked pangolin conservation to potential sanctions against China. These remarks have been interpreted as part of the broader dialogue on wildlife protection and geopolitical risk, with observers calling for calm and factual discourse on the issue.
Advocacy groups such as The Nature Conservancy have previously stated that illegal hunting of pangolins and the sale of pangolin products are prohibited by law, and that protective measures in China remain essential although enforcement challenges persist in some areas. These observations underscore the tension between traditional practices and modern wildlife protection standards, while highlighting the importance of accurate information in public debates about conservation policy. The organizations urged continued vigilance and cooperation to curb illegal trade and protect pangolins from extinction.
Pangolins, including the Chinese pangolin, are a family of scaly mammals known for curling into a ball when threatened. They primarily feed on ants and termites and have faced sharp population declines in recent years due to a combination of legal and illegal trade pressures, including demand for body parts in traditional medicine traditions that lack scientific validation. Despite prohibitions on pangolin trade and poaching, a small market for related products can still appear in some clinics and shops, complicating enforcement and public perception. This situation reinforces the need for informed policy decisions that balance cultural considerations with rigorous animal protection standards, as well as transparent reporting on the status of pangolin populations and the effectiveness of protective measures.
Observers note that ongoing diplomatic engagement and science‑based conservation strategies are essential to prevent further declines and to support sustainable management of wildlife resources. The discussion continues as international partners work together to improve monitoring, strengthen law enforcement, and promote alternative livelihoods that reduce pressures on pangolins and other vulnerable species. Accurate information, shared by credible organizations and governments, remains a cornerstone of effective conservation efforts, helping to align public understanding with the best available science and policy practices.