The NDPV may intervene in a case regarding the possible introduction of export quotas for lion bones and related products. (Photo: SAPS)
The National Animal Protection Association (NDPA) has achieved an important legal victory, after the Gauteng High Court ruled that the organization may intervene in a case regarding the possible introduction of export quotas for lion bones and related products.
The court case was brought by the South African Predator Association (Sapa) against the minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment.
According to Samanta Stelli, spokesperson for the NDPV, this ruling means that the organization can now actively participate in the proceedings and present evidence.
“The court recognized that the NDPV, together with the EMS Foundation, has a clear mandate to protect animal welfare and that we have a direct and significant legal interest in the outcome of this case,” says Stelli.
She further emphasized that the court also took note of the NDPV’s previous legal actions, which led to export quotas for lion bones being set aside.
“The previous legal actions play an important role in the current regulatory environment. It shows that the courts have already confirmed that animal welfare is not merely an afterthought, but must be a core consideration in any decision about the trade in wildlife products.”
A suitcase with bones that a passenger wanted to take on a flight. (Photo: SA Police)
Sapa’s application seeks to review and set aside the minister’s decision not to set annual export quotas for lion bones and related products.
The organization also wants the court to compel the minister to determine such quotas from now on.
“According to Sapa, there is, among other things, an existing stock of lion bones and derived products that can be used. They argue that this stock justifies the introduction of export quotas,” says Stelli.
The case forms part of a larger and increasingly controversial debate about the commercial trade in wildlife products in South Africa.
“In 2019, the Supreme Court has already confirmed that animal welfare is an essential consideration when decisions on export quotas for lion bones are made,” says Stelli.
“More recently, in 2025, the minister announced that no new breeding facilities for captive lions would be allowed. This indicates a clear policy shift towards the gradual phasing out of the industry.”
The NDPCA has long warned against the conditions at many facilities where lions are kept.
“Over the years, we have identified serious and systemic problems at many of these facilities. These include malnutrition, congenital deformities, accelerated breeding cycles, dirty and unsanitary enclosures, as well as inadequate access to food and water. These conditions indicate an almost total disregard for basic animal welfare standards.”
The SPCA in Bloemfontein euthanized 30 malnourished, injured lions on a Free State breeding farm. (Photo: Bloemfontein SPCA)
She emphasizes that the organization is determined to ensure that these issues are not ignored in policy and legal processes.
“The NDPCA will continue to act in accordance with its statutory mandate in terms of the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962. We will do everything in our power to ensure that animal welfare remains central to any decision affecting the fate of animals in custody.”
Stelli also thanked the organization’s legal team for their continued efforts.
“We are extremely grateful to our legal representatives, Adv. Les Morison SC, Adv. Sam Martin, as well as the team of Webber Wentzel. Their perseverance and commitment made it possible for the NDPV to have a voice in this important matter today.”
