In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, Chinese lawmakers have acted decisively to close gaps in wild animal protection. Recognizing that over 70 percent of new infectious diseases originate from wild animals, the National People's Congress (NPC) issued a nationwide ban on illegal wildlife trade and consumption on February 24.
Professor Yang Zhaoxia, an expert in ecological law, supports the decision, highlighting that previous legislation did not include animals like bats, which are capable of transmitting viruses. \"The legislature issued the ban to prevent such risks to public health,\" Yang explained.
But the ban is just the beginning. Two months later, the NPC standing committee discussed two additional laws focused on animal epidemic prevention and bio-security. Later this year, lawmakers plan to amend the country's Wildlife Protection Law, originally enacted in 1989 and amended four times by 2018.
Professor Yang, who contributed to previous amendments, emphasized the need for more detailed classifications in the law. \"We need to further classify what animals are edible and which are not. For example, those bred with mature technology and that meet sanitary standards should be allowed in markets,\" she stated. Yang also stressed the importance of enhancing punishments once classifications are specified.
Moreover, Zheng Hong, Vice President of Xihua University and a member of the top political advisory body, calls for stronger law enforcement. \"It's crucial to emphasize stricter law enforcement and promote inter-departmental cooperation. The public should be involved to supervise law enforcement and provide information on violation cases,\" Zheng added.
Reference(s):
China reacts swiftly to plug loopholes in wild animal protection
cgtn.com
